The Skinny on Training Camp

July 2013 Squads LISTEN UP! YOUR TIME IS ALMOST HERE.

I understand what you're feeling right now.

Training camp is in one week, you have little to no information about how to pack, what to expect, or what your role will be on your squad. You might not even be close to meeting your fundraising deadline.



Welcome to the World Race. â€¨â€¨

Being on the other side of it, I also understand the why behind the surprises.
Adventures wants to make sure you have the best training camp possible, so preserving your experience is a number one priority.



TRUST ME, there are some things you just don't need to know before you get there.




But these are the things every Racer SHOULD know before training camp. Take notes, pack accordingly, and leave the rest of your worries at home.

Be Practical:

• Be comfortable with the way your pack fits. You will carry it around (and often). 

• Bring a sleeping bag, not just a sleeping bag liner. Georgia has some chilly nights, even in summertime. A water bottle and headlamp are also a really good idea. 

• You will unpack/repack your bags over and over. Bring the stuff you think you'll want to take on the Race. This is your chance to figure out what you want and test out your gear. 

Embrace Your Adventurous Identity: 

•  Let go of control/schedule/and time. Don't try to guess or anticipate what will happen next. Learn to go with the flow and trust your leadership.

• You'll be trying new food at every meal. It's a little scary and might take a toll on your stomach, but stay calm and trust that you will always get what you need. Despite knowing this, don't bring snacks. Embrace a lifestyle of less.  

• If you forget to pack something, don't stress. Someone else will have it. And they will share (because, well, that's just what community looks like). 

• Don't rely on electronics. Chances are, you won't have access to electricity for most all of the week. You won’t need your laptop, and keep your ipod or iphone tucked away. Tuning out this week will not help you. 

• You WILL be pushed out of your comfort zone in every area you can think of–hygiene, eating habits, personal space, physical activity, worship, prayer, creativity.

Face it, You’re Adopted Now:

• You may not fully understand this untilyou’re on the field, but these people will become like family. Catch it early. Buy in to your journey together.

• Don't live in a bubble. You might be tempted to spend all your time with those you naturally gravitate towards. Don't. Reach out, have awkward conversations, be uncomfortable, and get to know your whole squad. 

• Embrace vulnerability. This is the key to unifying your squad. You won't regret it.

• Each squad is unique and different, and anointed. The people you meet WILL declare life over you and believe in you enough to draw you into greatness.

• Your team will be diverse. Learn to appreciate them for their diversity. It is a strength, not a weakness.

Expect Nothing Less: 

• You will be broken. Embrace it. God loves the messiness.

• Expect to see God perform miracles in the lives of those around you. He loves to flex His God muscles.

• You may be tempted to go home early. Satan will prey on all of your insecurities and uncertainties. Stick it out. Freedom is waiting on the other side.

Keep an Open Mind:

• Come as you are. Know that you don't have to "have your act together" when you get to camp. No one has their act together. Everyone falls short, and that's just the truth.

• No matter how long you've been a Christian, no matter how many different denominations you've experienced, you have probably never seen faith lived out the way the Adventures staff live it. Come open-minded. They have so much wisdom to share.