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The numbers field

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The numbers field

Team Building Activity: The Numbers Field

Category: Games & Activities Time: 20–30 minutes Teams: 2–3 teams • 12–30 people Focus: Planning • Coordination • Speed

Overview

Teams race to touch numbers 1 through 50 in order on a taped field. The run rewards clear roles, smart positioning, crisp calls, and steady pace.

Materials

  • Printed number cards 1–50 (A5)
  • Masking tape (field boundary and two parallel play lines)
  • Visible timer

Preparation & setup

  • Tape a square boundary large enough to scatter all 50 numbers inside with space between cards.
  • Randomly place and tape the numbers within the square.
  • Mark two parallel lines about 9 ft from each side of the square to define the play field.
  • Divide into 2 or 3 teams and assign starting/waiting areas.

Rules (quick)

  • Touch numbers sequentially from 1 → 50.
  • Each person must touch at least one number.
  • No moving cards or boundary tape.
  • Only one runner in the field per team at a time (default). Try a two‑runner variant later.

Step‑by‑step instructions

  1. Brief: Explain rules and scoring. Confirm if verbal cues from the sideline are allowed (recommended).
  2. Trial run (5 min): Each team gets one practice attempt to learn the layout.
  3. Timed runs: Each team completes three timed rounds. Record the fastest as their score.
  4. Execution: Runners tag the next teammate at the line after touching their number(s). Keep the order unbroken.
  5. Winning: Fastest valid completion wins.

Safety tips

  • Secure cards with tape; use a dry, non‑slip floor.
  • One runner at a time prevents collisions; add spotters at corners if space is tight.
  • Discourage diving or sliding; controlled pace beats spills.

Facilitator tips

  • During rest phases, invite teams to map zones (1–10, 11–20…) and assign runners accordingly.
  • Encourage simple call‑outs: number found, direction (“north‑east”), and next runner cue.
  • After each round, ask, “What shaved seconds? What caused stalls?” Adjust and rerun.

Debrief & discussion

  • Which positioning or handoff change improved your time?
  • How did communication shape accuracy and speed?
  • What teamwork patterns emerged under pressure?
  • Where do these habits show up in your workflows?

Related / alternative activities

Memory Relay

Memorize and fetch items or sequences with one runner at a time. Focus on recall, cues, and clarity.

Shape It Blind

One blindfolded member arranges shapes via verbal guidance only. Trains precision listening and trust.

Estimated time breakdown

Activity partDuration
Setup & instructions5 minutes
Trial runs5 minutes
Timed runs (3 rounds)15 minutes
Debrief5 minutes
  • Building High‑Performing Teams – roles, cohesion, alignment. View package →
  • Communicating with Clarity & Impact – fast cues, shared picture. View package →
  • Creative Problem Solving & Decision Making – plan under constraints. View package →

Free assessment tools & quizzes

FAQ

How large should the field be?

Big enough to space all 50 numbers with safe walking lanes—conference room or gym size works. Scale down by using 1–30 in small rooms.

Can more than one runner enter at once?

Default is one for safety and clarity. Try two‑runner rounds after teams master the layout.

Are verbal cues allowed?

Yes, recommended. Try a silent variant to stress non‑verbal pointing and pre‑planned zones.

Can we change the number count?

Yes—use 1–30 for quick sets or 1–80 for advanced groups with more space.

Any accessibility adjustments?

Widen lanes; allow walking pace only; reduce total numbers; or run a tabletop version using small cards and pointers.

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