In the military, pulling out your challenge coin starts a social game. Depending on the group, whoever doesn’t have their coin or is the last to show it faces a mild penalty, like buying the next round at the bar.
These coins remind owners of commitments, goals, and connections wherever they go, and that’s a handy tool for someone aiming to set healthier habits or hit fitness goals. Whether you’re pushing the bar alone or as part of a group, here are a few ways challenge coins can help you exceed your expectations.
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Commemorate a Group Vision
Challenge coins are traditionally linked to group achievement and membership. Sharing a tangible link with people who have the same goals or experiences can help ground coin owners when they’re away from spaces, times, and friends dedicated to the same fitness routines.
Any group or team can take advantage of the challenge coin system. If a group of school athletes needs a way to bond outside of training, custom coins with the school logo can remind them of their commitment whenever they reach into their pockets. Gym friends, running club members, or organizations training for an event like a marathon enjoy the same advantages.
People can unite around fitness in any space. If your coworkers want to make their office habits a little healthier, the coin system turns that drive into a game. If your book club wants to walk as far as the heroes in your favorite epic saga travel, this makes it real. It’s a piece of treasure to take on the journey.
Get Creative with Challenge Rules
While challenge coins celebrate participation and achievement as part of a group, they have more to offer than a simple trophy. Instead of hanging it on your wall, keep your coin on hand to challenge others in your group.
Common challenge rules often involve buying the winner a drink, but your fitness team can set custom guidelines. Aim for something sustainable and fun. If you’re challenged by another member and don’t have your coin, or are the last to show it, you could do an extra lap at a training field, perform a few push-ups, or take the stairs at the office for the rest of the day.
Talk out the details with your group. Consider changing the challenge from week to week. If members want to stay up to speed or vote on regular change-ups, they have extra motivation to stay engaged with the group. Peer support and engagement are key for many people who reach their fitness goals. Regular communication also keeps everyone on the same page regarding health and physical struggles. If someone recently suffered an injury, changing challenges to something like chugging water or performing stretches may be wise.
Get New Coins for Achievements
Even without a group, challenge coins provide an excellent way to celebrate and reinforce success. While you probably only want to carry one at a time, consider adding a coin to your collection whenever you hit a meaningful milestone. It’s a way to take your success with you and remind yourself of where you are on your fitness journey.