Water obstacles require participants to wade through ponds, streams, or water-filled ditches, often in cold conditions that shock the system and test mental resolve.
The refugee parallel
Water crossings represent some of the most dangerous moments of refugee journeys – crossing cold rivers, wading through flood waters, or enduring the shock of entering the sea. These moments test both physical endurance and mental strength as hypothermia becomes a real risk.
Your role as leader
Setting the scene Approach with appropriate gravity:
- “The river is our only path forward – we must cross together”
- “The water will be cold and shocking, but we have no choice”
- “Hold onto each other – the current could separate us”
Leading by example
- Enter the water first to show courage despite the discomfort
- Demonstrate how to maintain balance in shifting conditions
- Show steady breathing and composure despite the cold shock
- Help others enter whilst managing your own challenges with wet clothing
Supporting your group Once you’re in or across:
- Guide entry technique: “Go slowly, let your body adjust to the temperature”
- Provide reassurance: “The shock will pass – you’re stronger than you know”
- Offer physical support: “Take my hand, we’ll cross together”
- Acknowledge courage: “You’re facing your fears – that takes real bravery”
Maintaining the experience
Build collective courage
- “We face this water together – supporting each other through the cold”
- “Every step across brings us closer to safety”
- “The water wants to stop us, but our determination is stronger”
Handle the shock and discomfort When someone hesitates or struggles with the cold:
- Validate the fear: “It’s natural to be afraid – but look at your courage”
- Provide practical guidance: “Breathe steadily, move deliberately, don’t rush”
- Build confidence: “Your body is stronger than you think”
- Maintain hope: “This discomfort is temporary – safety is permanent”
After the crossing
- Acknowledge everyone’s bravery: “You all faced something frightening and conquered it”
- Celebrate collective achievement: “We supported each other through the hardest part”
- Use the experience to build resilience: “If we can do this, we can face anything ahead”
Working with course instructors
The professional instructor will:
- Monitor water safety and depth
- Watch for signs of hypothermia or genuine distress
- Provide safety equipment if needed
- Ensure proper entry and exit points
Your role is to:
- Maintain the emotional narrative of the journey
- Build courage and collective support
- Keep participants focused on the shared experience
- Help process the physical and emotional challenge
Managing physical challenges
Preparing for the shock
- Help participants mentally prepare for the cold without causing panic
- Remind them that the shock is temporary but the achievement lasts
- Encourage steady breathing and positive self-talk
During the crossing
- Monitor each participant for genuine distress versus normal discomfort
- Encourage helping each other maintain balance and courage
- Keep the group together – don’t let anyone face it alone
After exiting
- Don’t rush to warm up immediately – acknowledge what was just achieved
- Use the shared experience to build bonds
- Frame the cold, wet discomfort as proof of their determination
Key reminders
- Lead with courage whilst acknowledging the genuine challenge
- Build collective support for facing frightening moments
- Show that mental strength can overcome physical discomfort
- Maintain hope and forward momentum despite shocking conditions
- Celebrate the bravery it takes to face the unknown
- Use the experience to demonstrate that they are capable of more than they knew
- Keep everyone connected to the larger journey toward safety