Ready for DEKA? 804 Strength Hosts DEKA Strong & DEKA Mile This December in Richmond

DEKA, created by Spartan Race, is a modern functional fitness challenge made up of 10 standardized zones designed to test your strength, endurance, and grit, with no special training required. Open to people of all fitness levels nationwide, and Mechanicsville is no exception.

Train with expert coaches, build endurance, and earn your DEKA Mark. Register today!

What's DEKA STRONG & DEKA MILE: 804 Strength? 

DEKA is the official functional fitness test by Spartan designed for every level. You don’t need to be an elite athlete to show up, you just need the courage to see what you’re capable of. Think of it as a decathlon for the modern athlete: ten zones that challenge endurance, strength, and grit.

This is a full-body fitness test built around 10 functional training zones. These zones use simple, effective movements that challenge your strength, endurance, and mental toughness.

No fancy moves, no gymnastics, no secret skills.

Just raw, measurable effort through 10 movements: row, box step-over, ski erg, farmer carry, assault bike, tank push & pull, lunges, medicine ball sit ups, dead ball shoulder  and burpees.

You can choose your version and note that participants are eligible to do multiple races in the same day :

DEKA Strong: 10 zones, no running.
DEKA Mile: short runs between each station.
DEKA Teams: pair up and share the work.

Every finish earns an official DEKA Mark on the global leaderboard.

How Heats Are Scheduled for DEKA Richmond at 804 Strength

The event takes place right here in the Richmond area, specifically at 804 Strength, where our coaches and community will host heats throughout the day. In prior years, people often asked whether we assign heats. We don’t. Heat times are determined by when an individual or team registers; coaches do not choose them.

You’ll compete in a high-energy environment surrounded by familiar faces, loud encouragement, and the kind of support that makes you push harder than you thought you could.

Open to all members and non-members from first-timers to advanced athletes.

Ready to test your strength? Join our DEKA prep sessions

every Saturday at 804 Strength!                                                        

You don’t have to be in peak shape to start. You just have to show up. DEKA is built to meet you where you are and show you how far you can go.

Leading up to the event, 804 Strength will offer Saturday DEKA training sessions focused on pacing, form, and strategy. You’ll learn how to attack each zone efficiently and walk into the event feeling confident and ready.

Perfect for anyone who wants to train smart, feel prepared, and build momentum before race day.

You do not need to be a current 804 Strength member to take advantage of these training sessions. Register here and join the fun every Saturday at 804 Strength.

How to Register to DEKA in Mechanicsville?

Registration is open now through the Spartan DEKA website under the Richmond event listing. Stay tuned to our social media channels for updates and registration links @804strength

Event Date: December 13, 2025
Location: 804 Strength (Richmond / Mechanicsville area)
Divisions: DEKA Strong • DEKA Mile • DEKA Teams
Registration link: Click here

What to expect on the day of the event

When you walk into 804 Strength on December 13, you’ll feel the energy before you even start your first zone. Music, cheers, high-fives, and that unmistakable 804 Strength vibe, it’s the kind of atmosphere that pushes you to give your best. It’s a community in motion. 

Arrival: Get here at least 30 minutes before heat - it  gives you plenty of time to check in, warm up, and soak in the excitement. Take a moment to feel the buzz, meet fellow athletes, and get inspired by the crowd. After you crush your DEKA, stick around with the community, Cheer for others, share the winning vibes and enjoy the energy that keeps 804 Strength alive day long.

What to Bring: Bring your ID, confirmation email with QR code, your favorite hydration, and a solid snack to fuel up. You’ll want to be ready to perform—and to celebrate afterward.

Spectators: Locals, this is your time to show off that Richmond spirit. Invite your friends, family, and gym crew to come out and cheer. The DEKA arena thrives on energy, and nothing fires up the competitors like a loud hometown crowd. Visitors, you’ll feel right at home—this community knows how to make you part of the action.

Plan Your Stay in Richmond/Mechanicsville for DEKA on

Dec 13, 2025                                                                                                           

If you’re traveling to compete, welcome to Richmond! The local fitness community is ready to make you feel right at home. Explore local coffee spots, refuel at nearby restaurants, and get a taste of the area’s energy. Visitors, you’re part of the family now.

DEKA participants also get exclusive hotel deals through HotelPlanner, so you can rest easy before the big day.

Locals, this is your chance to be more than competitors, be hosts. Bring your energy, your families, and your hometown pride. Let’s show visitors what the Richmond and Mechanicsville community is all about.

This is your call to join us. Mark your calendars!

This December, 804 Strength transforms into the ultimate arena for crafting new narratives and pushing boundaries. Whether you're aiming for your inaugural DEKA Mark or striving to surpass your personal best, now is your moment.

Don’t just observe the action, become an integral part of it. Secure your spot at DEKA Richmond by registering today.

This is your time to move with purpose. To prove to yourself that you can. Richmond, the floor is ready. Are you?

804 Strength extends their appreciation to DEKA Participants.

One thing I notice every year is that the DEKA event becomes a propeller for many participants. The simple act of showing up for yourself brings a string of “aha” moments, one of them often being, “Man, this made me feel so good.” And you’re right, it does.

So why give up that feeling and wait for the next event somewhere else when, right here in Mechanicsville, we have the expertise and resources to help you go all in on the next chapter of your life? That’s one of the biggest reasons we host this event, because we know the impact it can have on your life and your health. We may not move like a giant, but we bring DEKA home so you can become one.

After the event, stay connected with us. We always plan a surprise to celebrate those who had the courage to show up and do the work.

DEKA event FAQ’S

What is the DEKA event at 804 Strength?
A: DEKA is a functional fitness test created by Spartan, designed for all levels. On December 13, 2025, 804 Strength will host DEKA Strong (no running) and DEKA Mile (short runs between zones) for individuals and teams.

Who can participate in DEKA Strong or DEKA Mile?
A: Anyone! DEKA is built for all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. No special training is needed—just the motivation to push yourself.

How do I register for DEKA Strong or DEKA Mile in Richmond?
A: Registration is available through the official Spartan DEKA website. You can also find the link on 804 Strength’s social media pages. 
Click to Register

What should I bring on event day?
A: Bring your ID, registration confirmation email with QR code, hydration, and nutrition. Arrive an hour early to check in and warm up.

What do finishers receive?
A: Finishers earn a DEKA medal, finisher tee, a spot on the global leaderboard, and serious bragging rights. Completing all three DEKA formats in a year earns you the Trifecta Wedge.

Is DEKA open to spectators?
A: Absolutely! Friends, family, and local supporters are welcome to cheer competitors on. Advance spectator tickets are available.