Sport2live integrates Social Emotional Learning (SEL) through the “15-Minute Challenge”

Barcelona, Spain, as part of its commitment to promoting the overall well-being of adults in recovery, sport2live has incorporated Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into its “15-Minute Challenge”: a non-competitive, self-paced running or walking activity implemented across nine therapeutic communities. This initiative not only promotes physical activity but also serves as a powerful tool to develop life skills, emotional resilience, and community integration.

 The programme in action

During the week of November 17th, several therapeutic communities collaborated with sport2live to carry out the “15-Minute Challenge.” Each participant, following their own recovery journey from addiction or mental health struggles, was invited to cover as much distance as possible in 15 minutes, with no rankings or competition involved.
Over the course of two months, participants trained for this challenge alongside a sport2live professional. On the day of the event, the activity was split into two phases: while one half of the group ran or walked, the other half cheered them on; then they switched roles. The session began with an 8-minute warm-up and ended with a group reflection and the symbolic awarding of personalised diplomas.

 Implementing SEL through sport

 sport2live’s SEL-based approach ensures that physical activity becomes a meaningful experience. Key life skills targeted include:

• Self-regulation – Participants learn to listen to their bodies, adjust their pace, and manage physical effort.
• Perseverance and growth mindset – By focusing on personal progress rather than competition, individuals build resilience and consistency.
• Sense of belonging and social connection – Cheering and being cheered creates a strong peer bond and a feeling of community.
• Emotional awareness – The reflection phase helps participants identify emotions, personal barriers, and coping strategies.
• Skill transfer – Coaches guide participants in linking the lessons learned through sport to everyday situations: “How can I apply this effort and self-regulation at work or in my family life?”

A shared success

 “The 15-minute challenge may seem small, but it’s incredibly powerful,” explains Berta Domínguez, Head of the Addictions and Youth programme at Sport2live. “We often work with people who feel disconnected from the idea of ‘doing sport’ or ‘succeeding’. This activity gives them a concrete, safe, and measurable experience of achievement—and a group dynamic that says: ‘You belong here.’”