Geraldo Alfaro Conquers The Coastal Challenge
Every so often, you hear about a race so grueling and challenging that it pushes athletes to their limits—mentally, physically, and emotionally. For 9Round International Master Developer, Geraldo Alfaro of Costa Rica, the Coastal Challenge was just that.
This multi-stage, 250 km endurance race through the tropical forests, rivers, and beaches of Costa Rica tested everything he had. In the end, it was more than just a race—it was a journey of growth, resilience, and overcoming obstacles. Here’s a look into his experience and the incredible lessons he learned along the way.
The Race: Coastal Challenge Costa Rica
The Coastal Challenge in Costa Rica is no ordinary race. Over six days, participants run through some of the world’s most stunning—and harsh—terrain. With 10,000 meters of elevation gain, runners navigate dense tropical forests, steep mountain trails, rivers, and even the scorching beaches of Costa Rica. Temperatures average around 96°F (36°C), adding to the mental and physical strain. It’s considered one of the top trail running races globally, demanding everything from its participants.
Motivation Behind the Challenge
For Alfaro, the motivation was clear: his family and his passion for leading a healthy, active lifestyle. The idea of testing his limits alongside a group of friends, all of whom shared his commitment to a healthy way of life, was an opportunity too good to pass up. For someone who had never done trail running before, the Coastal Challenge was an especially daunting task—but one he was determined to face head-on.
“It’s all about embracing challenges and pushing yourself beyond your limits. This was a whole new type of race for me, and that made it even more exciting,” he says.
Training: A Balanced Approach
The physical training required for such a grueling race is intense. Geraldo’s preparation combined mountain and street running with strength training, weights, and kickboxing. His coach, a seasoned triathlete and runner, helped him build stamina and endurance to take on the demanding course.
But it wasn’t just about the physical training. Mental preparation played an even larger role in his journey. The Coastal Challenge, with its unpredictable terrain and weather, required more than just muscle—it required mental fortitude.
“Endurance sports are as much about the mind as they are about the body. The mental strength to push through tough moments is crucial,” says Alfaro.
The Role of 9Round in Training
Alfaro credits 9Round as a key part of his training. The high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts at 9Round helped him improve his cardiovascular fitness and overall muscle strength. The combination of weight training and kickboxing not only enhanced his endurance but also improved his flexibility and recovery times.
“9Round was instrumental in helping me avoid injuries, improving my overall strength, and giving me the endurance I needed to keep going. Plus, it’s a great way to relieve stress during the intense preparation period,” Alfaro explains.
The Unexpected Challenges
Like all endurance races, the Coastal Challenge was full of surprises. For Alfaro, one of the most difficult moments came when he developed painful blisters on both feet on day two. With 95% of the race performed in wet shoes, his feet were constantly soaked, making the blisters even more painful.
“I couldn’t even walk at the campsite, and it felt like everything was falling apart,” he recalls. “But, in those moments, something inside me clicked. I knew I had to push through, so I adjusted my mindset and just kept going.”
Despite the blisters, Alfaro finished strong each day, demonstrating the incredible mental resilience that got him to the finish line.
Crossing the Finish Line
After six days of grueling effort, Alfaro crossed the finish line after approximately 50 hours. His body was sore, his feet in pain, but the sense of achievement was indescribable. He admits that tears of emotion came out from the relief, effort, and the overwhelming satisfaction of completing such a tough challenge.
“It was a true adventure of survival,” Alfaro reflects. “The entire experience was a lesson in mental strength. My friends became my brothers—we supported each other every step of the way, and that camaraderie was essential to our success.”
Key Lessons Learned
For Alfaro, the biggest takeaway from the Coastal Challenge was the power of the mind. The experience taught him that when you commit fully and keep a positive, determined attitude, you can overcome almost any obstacle.
“My advice to anyone taking on a big fitness challenge is to focus on mental strength. Your body can do more than you think, but the key to success is in the mind. If you believe in yourself and keep pushing forward, you’ll achieve more than you ever thought possible.”
Alfaro’s experience in the Coastal Challenge in Costa Rica was not just about finishing a race. It was about pushing boundaries, discovering his inner strength, and learning the value of perseverance. For those considering taking on a similar challenge, his advice is simple: focus, discipline, and consistency will take you farther than you think.
Congratulations to Geraldo Alfaro for not only completing the Coastal Challenge but for showing what true determination and the right mindset can achieve. His journey is an inspiration for us all to keep striving, pushing, and growing—no matter the challenge in front of us.
Are you ready to push your limits? Take a page from Alfaro’s book and embrace your next challenge—like considering a leap into fitness franchising to unlock new business opportunities and growth. Let 9Round show you how!
