The Training Lab Hosts Its First Ninja Competition

On Saturday, January 31st, The Training Lab proudly hosted Northwest Indiana’s first-ever ninja competition; and the atmosphere inside our Valparaiso facility was absolutely electric. From the moment the doors opened at 9 AM for the 7U division, the gym was buzzing with excitement as families, friends, and fellow athletes packed the sidelines to cheer on every competitor.

This milestone event brought together ninjas from three incredible gyms across the region:

• The Training Lab – Valparaiso, IN

• Big Time Ninja – Bolingbrook, IL

• Ultimate Ninjas – Naperville, IL

A total of 26 athletes stepped up to take on a challenging 13‑obstacle course designed to test every aspect of ninja ability. Competitors had the chance to earn up to 15 total points as they battled through obstacles including:

• Rail Run

• Tilting Steps

• Ring Toss

• Stepping Stones

• Ram Run

• Pleakley Swing

• Trapeze

• Airmail / Splat Lane

• Rolling Barrels

• H‑Block Run

• Cannonball Grips

• Pipe Ring Slide

• Peg Walk

• And of course… the iconic Warped Wall finish

This course demanded agility, balance, power, upper‑body strength, endurance, and precision, and every single athlete rose to the challenge.

What made the day truly special wasn’t just the obstacles, but the spirit behind them. Each competitor attacked the course with confidence, courage, and heart, showing exactly what ninja is all about. The crowd matched that energy, filling the gym with nonstop encouragement, applause, and celebration for every attempt, every save, and every victory.

From our youngest 7U athletes to the determined 15U competitors, the day was packed with inspiring moments that reminded us why ninja is such a powerful sport for kids: it builds resilience, bravery, and belief in oneself.

Hosting this event was an honor for The Training Lab, and it’s only the beginning. The success of this first competition has us more excited than ever to bring even more ninja events to Northwest Indiana.

Thank you to all athletes, families, coaches, and partner gyms for making this historic day unforgettable. We can’t wait for the next one.