North Lake Tahoe is usually a scenic destination where crowds flock to enjoy leisurely outdoor activities. But on the weekend of October 1-2, it turned into a grueling trial for those wishing to test their physical and mental fortitude when the Spartan World Championship marched into town.

Day after day, you get to the club, jump on the treadmill or cardio machine of preference, and leave drenched in sweat. You worked your butt off, but the results aren't there anymore. You've crossed over into "The Plateau Zone." *Cue creepy music*