Wellbeing through the Challenge Program

By: Francis Morgan-Gallo
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You can't judge a book by its cover, and if you have seen the challenge course, you may think of it as a military obstacle course. Did you know, however, that at least 30 percent of challenge curriculum is delivered indoors or completely on the ground? The University Recreation challenge program focuses on group and personal development utilizing the most appropriate activities for those involved.

Looking at the Wellbeing Wheel it all revolves around personal responsibility and during a challenge curriculum you will have the opportunity to test this in most of the dimensions of the wheel. All activities involve intellectual, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual components.

Intellectually you and your group will problem solve unique and sometimes complex situations, becoming more aware of and familiar with learning styles, leadership styles, and reasoning abilities of all involved. Through working on the situations people learn new perspectives for viewing problems and appreciation for differing styles. Facilitators monitor all activities to insure respectful interactions and identify and enhance learning.

Humans are social beings and since all challenge programs occur in groups, social interactions are constant. First groups are presented with situations that are designed for high success and fun, and social connections are formed or strengthened. As activities become more complex and issues are identified within groups, the stress level escalates and being nice becomes being real. Facilitators assist in the development of skills to be authentic and respectful.

Everyone reacts differently to situations, and just as in the social dimension we all experience emotions as we are challenged to solve simulated and life problems. Individuals will be presented with situations that key into feelings of frustration, confusion, success, and more, in turn dealing with how their emotions affect the way they are in the world. Facilitators provide the safe environment necessary to explore emotions and protect all from going too far.

Challenge activities involve some level of physical engagement form using hands to climbing high. Each person determines where they are comfortable, what their goal is, and what is beyond their ability. Facilitators help brainstorm options and keep activities safe.

Individuals and groups continually evaluate and redefine their values during challenge programs. This happens in how the group works, how people treat each other, and how tasks are accomplished. If actions do not reflect values, facilitators will help examine the dissonance and clarify how to align actions and values.

If you are seeking balance for you or your group Wellbeing, consider scheduling a day with the challenge program. All curriculums are custom designed to meet your goals. Visit the Challenge Program Website or contact Francis Morgan-Gallo or Monika Parikh for more information.