DEKA vs. Savage Race: Distanz, Stationen, Preis & Schwierigkeit im Vergleich (2026-27)

DEKA is a functional fitness race series run by Spartan Race and billed as the decathlon of hybrid fitness racing. Every DEKA event uses the same ten DEKA Zones. The time for each zone and the total time are recorded, so athletes can compare results with their own previous marks and with a global leaderboard.

The flagship DEKA FIT puts 500 m of running before each zone, for 5 km in total. DEKA MILE uses 160 m runs for one mile in total, and DEKA STRONG is the ten zones with no running. There are also DEKA Ultra (50 zones and 25 km of running) and DEKA ATLAS, a heavier ten-zone test with a 30-minute cap. Athletes who finish STRONG, MILE and FIT in one calendar year earn the DEKA Trifecta. Heats include Elite, Age Group, Teams and Ruck, so the series suits gym-goers as well as competitive athletes.

Savage Race is an American obstacle race series with events currently listed in Florida (Dade City) and Georgia (Dallas), held in spring and autumn. It has received awards from Mud Run Guide and OCR Buddy, including best North American series.

There are two formats. The full Savage Race covers 5 to 7 miles with 25 or more obstacles, including its signature near-vertical slide Colossus, ice baths, fire and mud. Savage Blitz is a shorter option of 3+ miles with 15 to 20 obstacles. Entry includes chip timing, a T-shirt and a medal. Most runners join open heats, while the SavagePRO wave on Saturday mornings competes for overall and age-group awards; there is also a SavageJR race for children and a team option. Runners who complete two or more events in a calendar year qualify for the Savage Syndicate medal. The Blitz suits first-timers, while the full race suits runners with a solid fitness base.