When planning outdoor activities with groups, you really need to take the levels of skill and fitness into account.
If you are coming to Lonsdale Villa Retreat for a group business training or research break, you will probably want to take advantage of some of the activities that North Lakeland and Penrith has to offer.
Many of our research and training groups want to do some outdoor team building exercises, for some very good reasons. Engaging in outdoor activities such as cycling, climbing, and walking offers numerous benefits. It is known to boost mental well-being and facilitate creative thinking. For employees (and managers and employers) participating in these activities can enhance team bonding, reduce stress, and increase productivity.
However, the Lake District, can be prone to sudden weather changes and some of the climbs and walks in the more remote areas are not for the faint hearted. That said, there is something for everyone. Regardless of physical ability, skill or experience levels, there will be something where everyone can safely and enjoyably participate.
The chances are that you will be planning for a group of people who have a wide range of fitness levels and experience, so it does need a little thought in advance. Here are a few things to consider.
Fully Assess Physical Abilities and Experience Levels
Understanding the varying physical abilities and experience levels within your group is obviously going to be crucial when planning inclusive activities. If you are not sure, then it’s probably best to have individual discussions to gauge comfort levels and fitness backgrounds. You could also ask participants to fill out a fitness form if personal interviews are not appropriate or possible. You are looking to tailor activities that are both challenging and enjoyable for everyone, so this may well be about inclusiveness more than challenging fitness levels.
Choose Appropriate Activities
Select activities that offer different levels of intensity and challenge. For example:
Cycling: Opt for routes with flat, easy paths for beginners and them maybe do an extended one, or additional voluntary ride, for more challenging trails for experienced cyclists.
Climbing: Choose a climbing area that offers different grades of difficulty. Ensure there are professional guides available to assist beginners. We have trusted partners to help you with this. Ascending Helvellyn can be pretty challenging if you go the Striding Edge route, but the Pony Path is much easier and avoids the scrambling of more difficult routes.
Walking: Walking in the lakes is an absolute joy and you really don’t need to be exerting yourself to exhaustion to enjoy it. Take a scenic woodland able rather than a long hill one. It’s great to really put some effort in to see some of the views though and that will often require some effort. The reward for a little more work will be worth it though.
Plan and Communicate the Itinerary Early
Clearly communicate the itinerary and expectations well in advance. Include details such as:
- Meeting points and times
- Duration and distance of activities
- Required equipment and gear
- Safety guidelines and emergency contacts
Providing this information helps participants prepare mentally and physically, ensuring they bring the necessary gear and are aware of what to expect.
Encourage a Non-Judgemental Environment
Team building is all about coming together, so instil that from the beginning. Unless you are doing it for a specific purpose, there is no need for a competitive edge. If you do want to have some competition in the team you could arrange for combined events that play to wider skills than just the physical element.
Encourage Fitness in Advance.
Encourage employees to gradually build their fitness levels before the event. This could include:
Cycling: Suggest short, regular rides leading up to the event to build stamina.
Climbing: Recommend practicing at a local climbing gym to develop strength and technique.
Walking: Advise participants to take daily walks, gradually increasing distance and pace.
Gradual conditioning helps prevent injuries and ensures that everyone feels confident and prepared.
Provide the Right Gear
Having the appropriate gear is essential for safety and comfort. Provide a checklist for participants, which might include:
Cycling: Helmet, padded shorts, water bottle, repair kit, and a suitable bike.
Climbing: Climbing shoes, harness, helmet, chalk bag, and appropriate clothing.
Walking: Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water bottle, and a small backpack.
You can rent gear for those who may not have access to it through one of the providers in the local area.
Focus on Safety
Safety should be the top priority. Implement the following measures as a minimum:
- Briefing: Conduct a safety briefing before the activity, covering potential hazards, emergency procedures, and proper use of equipment.
- First Aid: Ensure that a first aid kit is readily available and that some participants are trained in basic first aid.
- Buddy System: Encourage participants to pair up or form small groups to look out for each other.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Emphasize the importance of staying hydrated and well-nourished, especially during longer activities.
- Don’t forget the night in the country can be dark and the weather can reduce visibility. Our friends at LightUpU do a range of safety devices to make sure you can be seen and safe in low light conditions.
Include Rest and Recovery
We cannot overstate the importance of rest and recovery, particularly for those who are less experienced or have lower fitness levels. Plan for regular breaks during the activity to allow participants to rest, hydrate, and regroup. After the event, encourage gentle stretching and relaxation techniques to aid recovery.
Foster Inclusivity and Support
Create an inclusive and supportive environment by:
- Encouragement: Promote a positive and encouraging atmosphere where all participants feel valued, regardless of their ability or experience level.
- Adaptations: Be prepared to make adaptations as needed, such as adjusting the pace or providing additional support to those who require it.
- Feedback: Solicit feedback after the event to understand what worked well and where improvements can be made for future activities.
Ultimately, the goal of these activities is to have fun and foster team bonding so encourage participants to focus on enjoyment rather than competition. Plan for social elements, such as group lunches or post-activity gatherings, to strengthen team cohesion and allow participants to share their experiences.
