WHAT IS THE NEW WARRIOR TRAINING ADVENTURE?

The New Warrior Training Adventure is a weekend process of initiation and self-examination that is designed to catalyze the development of a healthy and mature masculine self. It is the "Hero's Journey" of classical literature and myth adapted to our modern culture. It is a profound inward journey of self confrontation: facing the deep fears and the old wounds that keep our lives from working the way we want. And, it is a gateway into a fellowship of men informed by rigorous honesty and a level of trust that most men never know.

WHO RUNS THE TRAINING?

The ManKind Project, a national not-for-profit organization with local centers throughout the U.S., has been in existence for 24 years. Founded by three men from the Midwest with backgrounds in clinical psychology and education, it has conducted trainings for more than 35,000 men in the U.S., Canada, Australia, South Africa and Europe. Almost every weekend, somewhere in the world, a training begins. Each weekend adventure is led by a small team of highly experienced men who fly in for the training and a volunteer staff from one of the 29 local New Warrior centers. Trainings are limited to approximately 32 new men and the staff to 'initiate' ratio is greater than 1:1.

WHO COMES TO THE TRAINING?

Individuals from all walks of life, fathers and sons from every imaginable occupation and life experience come together for a weekend equally challenging to all. In our New Mexico trainings we have had a former Governor of the state of New Mexico, assorted white collar professionals, former military personnel, an Hispanic biker from Taos, quadriplegics, artists and craftsmen, car salesmen, writers, retirees and students from all over the southwest. Whether corporate executive or high school dropout, each man will discover something about his own personal mission as well as our common bond as men. Lifetime friendships are forged in this crucible of intense exploration.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE TRAINING?

About a week after you have completed the initiation you are formally welcomed back into the community of your family, friends and fellow initiates at a "graduation" ceremony in Santa Fe. In addition, each man is invited to join an 8 to 10 man Integration Group to help integrate your weekend experience into your life. For many men, these Integration Groups, which evolve into ongoing weekly men's  groups, are even more valuable than the weekend training itself. Currently in New Mexico there are 20 active 'I-Groups' in Taos, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Las Cruces and Durango, CO.

ARE YOU READY?

We do not recommend this training for every man. We urge you not to apply to this program without serious forethought, and not to enroll simply at the urging of a spouse or friend. To get the most benefit from the initiation process you must be willing to face the prospect of transformative change in your life. You will be challenged physically, mentally and emotionally. While not emphasizing outdoor activities, it is recommended that you be in reasonably good health. To find out more about whether the training is for you, browse the F.A.Q.S Page  and then contact one of the men in this area who have volunteered to serve as contact persons.