Ninja Warrior Physics: Does It Matter If You Clean Your Shoes Before the Spider Jump?

Image: NBC/American Ninja Warrior

Everybody loves Ninja Warrior. Everybody. However, I guess I should describe this show just in case you don’t know that it’s one of your favorite shows. It’s basically an adult-sized obstacle course that would be appropriate training for ninjas (that’s where they get the name from).

Here’s a clip.

Yes, even marshmello people can be in American Ninja Warrior. But what are the most important aspects of this ninja stunt? Let’s start with some basic physics.

Forces and Friction for a Spider Wall

I’m not sure why it’s called the spider wall. Spiders don’t climb walls this way (even Spider-Man can climb with just one wall). Oh well.

I’m going to assume a stick-figure ninja with just two feet in contact with the walls. Here is a force diagram.