Have your heard of the phase ‘Type Two Fun’?
The concept was coined by geology professor and mountaineer Dr. Rainer Newberry in 1985, as part of his "Fun Scale" used in outdoor and adventure communities to describe activities that are miserable while happening but become enjoyable in retrospect, such as challenging mountain climbs or long backpacking trips.
‘Type Two Fun’ is the kind of fun that feels challenging, demanding or even uncomfortable in the moment but deeply rewarding afterward and it’s is one of the most powerful ways to grow.
Stepping out of your comfort zone on a walking trail or steep mountain track pushes you to confront both physical and mental limits. While the climb may burn your legs and test your patience, the sense of accomplishment at the summit creates a lasting confidence that easy experiences simply can’t match.
Bushwalking unfamiliar trails teaches resilience. Each uneven step forces you to stay present, trust your footing, and navigate uncertainty — skills that translate well beyond the outdoors. When the terrain gets steep, your mind must wrestle with doubt: Can I keep going? Overcoming that internal resistance strengthens mental toughness and self-belief.
Challenging walking trails also reconnect you with your body. In a world where comfort is always within reach, feeling your heartbeat rise and your muscles work reminds you what you’re capable of.
Even the discomfort becomes meaningful: the cold wind, the incline, the fatigue — each one contributes to the story you’ll proudly tell later.
Stepping into nature this way also provides perspective. High ridgelines and quiet forest paths slow your thoughts and open space for reflection. When you return to everyday life, problems often feel smaller, and gratitude feels bigger.
Ultimately, Type Two Fun on a trail or mountain track isn’t just good for your health; it’s good for your mindset, confidence and sense of adventure. It proves that growth happens at the edge of comfort — and that the hardest steps often lead to the most rewarding views.
Type III Fun isn’t really fun at all, not even in retrospect. ‘Doomed’ and ‘harrowing’ are more accurate descriptors so it’s best avoided!