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Team Building Activity: Flippy Flip

Team Building Activity: Flippy Flip

Category: Team Building Time: ~15 minutes Group size: 6–20 (whole group) Focus: Planning • Coordination • Communication

Objective

Encourage communication, collaboration, and teamwork through a physical group challenge that requires planning and coordinated movement: flip the tarp while everyone stays on it.

Materials

  • Large bedsheet or tarp big enough for the whole group to stand on comfortably

Preparation

  • Choose an open, flat space large enough to safely fit the group.
  • Lay the tarp flat; ensure it’s clean and dry to avoid slipping.
  • Clear nearby hazards/obstacles.
  • Plan to monitor safety as participants move on the tarp.

Step‑by‑step instructions

  1. Gather group: Everyone stands on the tarp with feet fully on the surface and room to move.
  2. Explain the challenge: Flip the tarp completely so everyone ends up on the “other side” without anyone stepping off.
  3. Planning time (3–5 min): Give the team time to discuss roles and approach without stepping off.
  4. Start: Begin the flip following the plan; adjust as needed while staying on the tarp.
  5. Rules: No one may step off the tarp. Move carefully to maintain balance.
  6. Completion: The challenge is complete when the tarp is fully flipped and everyone is standing on the new side.
Role ideas
  • Coordinators to call sequence and pace.
  • Spotters to watch edges and stability.
  • Timekeeper to track planning and execution time.

Safety tips

  • Emphasize cautious, deliberate movements; avoid sudden shifts.
  • Secure or tape corners if the surface is slippery.
  • Pause if balance looks unstable; reset positions as needed.
  • Position participants with limited mobility strategically for stability.

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage clear communication and active listening.
  • Invite quick reflection pauses if the team stalls; ask what to try next.
  • Assign simple roles to improve organization.
  • Celebrate small wins like stable micro‑flips and improved coordination.

Debrief & discussion

  • What was your initial strategy and why?
  • How did your approach evolve during the challenge?
  • How effective was your communication under pressure?
  • What role did planning play in your success or struggle?
  • How did you support one another through difficult moments?
  • Where can you apply these teamwork lessons at work?

Alternative/similar activities

Human Knot

Stand in a circle, grab two different hands, and untangle without releasing. Focus: communication, problem‑solving, teamwork.

Line Up Without Speaking

Without talking, line up by height, birthday, or alphabetically. Focus: non‑verbal communication and creative collaboration.

Estimated time breakdown

Activity partDuration
Setup & instructions3–5 minutes
Planning phase3–5 minutes
Activity execution5–7 minutes
Debrief discussion5 minutes
  • Building High‑Performing Teams – teamwork, collaboration, cohesion. View package →
  • Communicating with Clarity & Impact – clearer, faster alignment. View package →
  • Creative Problem Solving & Decision Making – practical frameworks for complex tasks. View package →

Free assessment tools & quizzes

FAQ

What group size works best?

6–20 as one group works well. For larger teams, split into two tarps and compare strategies.

How big should the tarp be?

Large enough for all feet to be fully on the surface with a bit of room to shift. If too small, adjust rules (e.g., allow a small fold buffer).

What if someone steps off?

Either reset to the start or add a small time penalty—decide before starting.

Is it safe on smooth floors?

Use non‑slip mats or tape edges. Stop immediately if sliding occurs.

Remote alternative?

Not directly. Use a virtual coordination task instead (e.g., simultaneous pattern‑building on a shared whiteboard) to practice planning and communication.

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