Adult Field Days: Why Grown-Ups Need Playtime Too
As kids, field days were a summer tradition that filled us with giddy excitement. We eagerly awaited those fun-filled events packed with classic games like the tug-of-war, water balloon toss, and sack races.
An afternoon devoted to nothing but playful competitions and unbridled joy was the epitome of childhood euphoria. The phrase "have a field day" has even become a colloquial expression used in everyday life.
Fast forward to adulthood and many of us have left those carefree moments behind. But bringing adult field day games into our lives can provide some truly valuable benefits that we could all use more of.
First off, adult field days are more than just children's games
Adult field days are more than mere replicas of what you remember from summer camp. They're polished events tailored for grown-up enjoyment and team-building. At Throwback, we infuse classic field day games with unique twists that engage both the body and mind.
Our events blend physical challenges with mental puzzles, requiring participants to strategize and solve problems while they compete. This makes games more inclusive and ensures that each participant, from the athletic to the analytical, finds their niche.
We design field days for adults to strenghten friendships and enhance workplace dynamics. Through well-planned activities, we foster leadership, teamwork, and communication—skills that translate directly back to professional environments. Our expert coaches create an atmosphere that's competitive yet friendly, ensuring that every participant leaves feeling invigorated and valued.
Field days with Throwback aren't just about reliving childhood; they're about creating new memories and building lasting relationships. Every game and every high-five adds up to an experience that strengthens teams and creates lasting memories.
Here are 6 reasons why field day events for adults belong in your life!
Rejuvenate Your Playful Spirit
Between work, family responsibilities, and life's endless to-do list, we easily fall into a cycle of relentless duties. But here's a fun stat: A poll by Everday Health found that 81% of adults said playing helps them relieve stress and feel energized.
How do adults awaken their playful spirit? Adult field day activities are more than just fun and games. They're an invitation to embrace spontaneity and indulge in a little silliness. Better said, field days are the ultimate way to unleash your inner child.
The benefits of corporate field days extend beyond the event itself. Research by BrightHR found that employees who have fun at work are 16% more productive. And the University of Pennsylvania found that adults who engaged in playful activities at work report higher job satisfaction.
So why not embrace field days as a vibrant reminder to infuse our daily routines with joy and playfulness?
Promote Friendly Competition
Whether you're competitive or not, field day games for adults challenge you to take risks and try new things in a low-pressure environment. Stepping out of your normal routines exercises creativity, problem-solving, and social skills you may not use regularly. Embracing that feeling of childlike freedom reveals new ways of thinking and approaching obstacles.
Here's some data to support it:
Individuals who engaged in friendly competition with coworkers reported 16% higher levels of job satisfaction (The Journal of Personality and Social Psychology)
According to a survey by OfficeVibe, companies with established employee recognition programs involving friendly competition reported a 14% increase in employee productivity levels
Gallup found that employees engaged in workplace competitions are 27% more likely to feel "involved and enthusiastic" about work
For a Throwback-curated field day, balance is key. A mix of physical, mental, and creative challenges ensures that every player has an awesome experience. This should not be an experience that is only fun for the athletic players. We've mastered creating an environment where every participant feels engaged, included, and valued.
Champion Camaraderie and Teamwork
Field days for adults go beyond entertainment, but can serve as a engaging tool for forging bonds. When coworkers and friends come together for some friendly competition, it allows them to connect in unique ways. The shared experience of competition and high fives breaks down barriers and hierarchies that exist in normal adult life.
Field day events for adults require players to collaborate, strategize, and encourage each other through various challenges. This mirrors the kinds of cooperation and motivation required in many workplace projects or everyday life. Cheering fellow teammates can translate into better teamwork and communication on other more serious shared initiatives. And celebrating victories together can boost morale and positive sentiment among colleagues.
Field days also provide a refreshing chance for colleagues and friends to see different sides of one another. This cultivates stronger relationships and builds friendships, which is extremely powerful in the workplace...
A Gallup study revealed that close work friendships boost employee satisfaction by 50%.
Data from Harvard Business Review found that companies with connected employees performed 147% better than those with disconnected employees.
Creating opportunities for strengthening friendships at the office can be one of most beneficial investments a company can make.
A Fun Twist on Exercise
Finding time for exercise can be a chore. Yet, the dynamic nature of adult field days injects some zesty thrills into staying active.
Forget the monotony of gym routines or lonely jogs. Field day activities for adults transform physical activity into an adventure of spirited games and challenges. Games like relay races and obstacle courses demand physical effort while highlighting joy and laughter over exertion.
Adult team members can get a healthy dose of cardio amidst the fun and sportsmanship. And not all 'exercise' needs to be physical. Many of our most popular field day games emphasize mental fitness over physical fitness.
Variety is a critical field day element. A mix of game types offers something for everyone so everyone feels connected to the event. A group setting also fosters a supportive atmosphere, encouraging individuals to safely and enjoyably push their boundaries. The American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine found that group-based physical activities can lead increased levels of social connectedness.
Adult field day activities remind us that staying active doesn't have to be dull or routine. They're a reminder that exercise, when wrapped in the cloak of play and community, can be a source of joy.
In turning exercise into a communal celebration of movement, field days carve out a unique niche in adult wellness!
Reduce Stress and Boost Morale
Field days and color wars provide a unique reprieve from the monotony of adult life. The mix of activity, community, and outdoor fun can provide the ultimate feel-good experience.
The nostalgia of childhood games can naturally elevate mood by triggering the release of dopamine. Nostalgia also enhances feelings of social support and reduces feelings of loneliness.
Childhood-inspired revelry goes hand in hand with laughter. Mark Twain famously said: "The human race has only one effective weapon, and that is laughter."
Social laughter brings on endorphins that promote an overall sense of well-being and can even boost happiness! Research shows that laughter decreases cortisol levels, which correlates with improved mood and reduced stress.
Field days not only lift spirits but also build a happier, more connected workplace. Gallup found that companies with happy, engaged employees outshine others by 202%. This demonstrates how reducing stress and building relationships can lead to success by focusing on well-being. It turns out, investing in joy isn't just good for us... it's smart business.
Recharge in Nature
Stepping away from the computer screen and out into nature is an essential escape for adults. Immersing in nature isn't just about enjoying the scenery and the benefits go beyond a breath of fresh air.
Research consistently shows that spending time outdoors can lead to significant health benefits. As little as 20 minutes in a park can improve mood and reduce cortisol levels. Exposure to natural light also helps regulate sleep cycles. The Environmental Health Perspectives highlights how daylight exposure increases melatonin production at night, promoting restful sleep.
The physical health benefits of being outside are just as exciting. Individuals who engage in regular outdoor activities have a 20% lower risk of developing heart disease according to the American Journal of Preventative Medicine. Vitamin D, dubbed the 'sunshine vitamin,' is crucial for bone health, immune function, and reducing inflammation. Outdoor exposure is one of the most effective ways to maintain adequate Vitamin D levels.
Beyond physical health, the outdoors plays a crucial role in fostering social connections and community. Group activities create opportunities for shared experiences that are fundamental to building strong social networks.
But wait, there are cognitive benefits for being outdoors too! Being in nature can enhance creativity and problem-solving skills. A study from the University of Kansas found that participants who spent time in nature showed a 50% improvement in creativity test scores.
Stepping outside and reconnecting with the natural world is not a luxury. Outdoor events like adult field day games can be essential to our holistic health and happiness.
Customize Your Own with the Field Day Company
Reflecting on the boundless benefits of adult field days, it's clear that these events offer more than just fun. If the idea of throwing back to simpler times while boosting morale and teamwork appeals to you, we can help you out.
Hit the ‘Plan your field day’ link below to get in touch and let's start planning together! If you're looking for an indoor version of a field day, check out our 'Color War' page.
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