The Australian version of TV show Ninja Warrior was recently aired and has attracted a tonne of attention. So I made my way down to the local Ninja Parc to see what all the fuss is about.

You'll find it on Australia east coast, in the city of Newcastle.

It's not quite as formidable as the Ninja Warrior version and with no water, mistakes are far less costly.

There are a few classics obstacles, like the slant board and vert ramp. There are also some unique obstacles like the pole maze, which challenges you to traverse between a series of vertical steel poles. It was tough!

But what a blast!

My housemate had organised for his daughters birthday to be held there so I thought I'd tag along. I made it through all the obstacles and wish I got more footage but honestly I was too busy having fun. When I go back I'm appointing myself camera man.

It isn't all fun and games at this center though. They actually have a competition that operates from a computer timing system integrated into the course.

I think I might have found myself a new goal. Winning Ninja Warrior :')

Here is a video of my first attempt at the vert ramp. Apologies for all the screaming, like I said it was a 10 year old's party so it's to be expected. You can see my arms shake as I push myself up, complaining about smashing my chest into the coping at the top. After all the previous hanging, climbing, crawling at one point clawing, I'm proud of myself for getting it done.

Having a healthy, functional body isn't about looking good and living long.

It's about feeling comfortable experiencing life wherever it might challenge you to go.

In this instance it's up a 4m wall, but it might be climbing a local mountain, jumping off a jetty on a hot day or bring in the groceries all at once.

For Michael, it's about providing a role model for his daughter to admire... He know's kids learn by what they see, not what they're told.

I hope you enjoyed reading this post as much as I enjoyed getting out there and making it!

Yours, with purpose.

harrynewman