VPP Episode 244: The Lesser Known History of Challenge Courses

In this episode of Vertical Playpen, Christy Brodeur (Project Adventure) and Chris Damboise (High 5) join Phil Brown to discuss the lesser known history of challenge courses. The discussion covers the contributions of Georges Hébert, Yvonne Moreau, the development of obstacle courses, and the integration of challenge courses into Outward Bound and Project Adventure. The conversation also touches on the role of women in the history of challenge courses and the transition from military-focused training to educational and team development purposes. The guests highlight the importance of understanding the historical context and origins of challenge courses in order to have meaningful discussions about accessibility and diversity in the field. It discusses how challenge courses were initially developed as a way to prepare soldiers for war and how they later transitioned into educational and recreational settings. The conversation also touches on the commercialization of challenge courses and the need for practitioners to be intentional and inclusive in their approach. The key themes include the historical context of challenge courses, the impact of culture and community, and the importance of accessibility and inclusivity.