ET Takes on 'American Ninja Warrior' (VIDEO)

What's it take to become America's ultimate athlete?  ET found out by tackling an intense obstacle course for NBC's action-packed American Ninja Warrior where challengers pushed their strength and endurance to the limit for a shot at competing in the national finals round.  Watch the video to see some of the high-flying action and wild wipeouts.

Now in its sixth season, American Ninja Warrior continues to keep competitors on their toes as they try to navigate a series of obstacles without falling in the water below or slamming into the mats.  The intimidating course in Venice Beach, California was one of five different qualifying courses set up around the country, the others located in Dallas, St. Louis, Miami and Denver.  Contestants who successfully complete a course in their designated city go on to the national finals round in Las Vegas where they must conquer a stunning, four-stage course to earn the "American Ninja Warrior" title and a $500,000 grand prize.

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Among the eager contestants waiting to take the plunge was Olympic luger Kate Hansen, 21, who competed for Team USA in the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics where she showed off her pre-race dance routine and also collaborated with Jimmy Kimmel for the "Wolf in My Hall" prank.

"I'll be very surprised if I even finish this thing, it's very intimidating to look at," Kate said.  "Hopefully, you know I'll just give all the guys a run for their money and see how it goes!"

This season, presenter Matt Iseman and former NFL player Akbar Gbaja-Biamila will return to host the show along with Emmy-winning sportscaster Jenn Brown, who serves as co-host.

Season six of American Ninja Warrior premieres Monday, May 26 at 9/8 p.m. central on NBC. 

To see who's crowned champion, catch the finale on Monday, September 15 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT.