Irresistible force versus immovable object

from Will Project Wiki

A physical formulation of the Irresistible force paradox: "What happens when an irresistible force meets an immovable object?"

Objective

To test and increase participants' determination by giving them an impossible task, whereby only one person can meet the objective.

Method

The exercise involves one person running from a start point towards a set goal point (a wall, a marked line, or a placed object such as cone or piece of cloth) a short distance away. Another person will stand in front of the goal and attempt to stop them by tackling, grappling, and restraining them. Rules and protective equipment can be varied depending on the nature of the training. It is possible for there to be one runner and a multiple people trying to stop them, similar to Bullrush, although without the group in the middle choosing who runs - everyone takes a turn.

• Person organising the exercise will state the to runner, "You will make it to the other side/goal" and to the person opposing this, "You will stop him/her."
• Runner will charge as fast as they can towards the goal, which will be guarded by an opponent or opponents. They will use all means and skills within the rules they have been given, but rely primarily on a singled-minded determination that they will reach their goal. They may use affirmation while running, such as "I will make it", "I will reach my goal", etc.
• The person or group attempting to stop the runner will use all means within the rules of the game to stop the runner, such as tackling, grappling, and restraining. As with the runner this person may repeat affirmations, such as "I will stop him/her" etc.
• The turn only ends under the following conditions:

1. the runner reaches the goal
2. the runner gives up
3. the runner is successfully restrained for a period of time without being able to move
4. the runner is dragged back to the starting point (meaning they were unable to continue their forward travel)

• Roles are reversed, or the next pair take their turn.

Notes

• It is possible to ritualise this exercise more. Both participants can be given time to formulate their goal, visualize it, and essentially 'psyche' themselves up before the run.
• Remember though that this is more a rugged physical test of determination than of skill, so a predetermined plan is not necessary.

Online References:
http://www.willproject.org/wiki/Methods_for_the_Development_and_Training_of_the_Will#Combative