Put One Leg In and Out

In the Put One Leg In and Out icebreaker game, the purpose is to encourage participants to interact and have fun together in a group setting. The game involves splitting the group into two teams - one active and one passive. The passive team forms a circle by squatting and holding hands, while the active team attempts to move their leg in or out of the circle without being tagged by the passive players. The rules can be adapted to make the game more complex, such as requiring the active players to move both legs simultaneously. The team that completes the task the most times wins, making it a fun and engaging way to break the ice and promote teamwork among participants.

1. Split the group into two teams with equal players.
2. Active team players stand near the circle formed by passive team players.
3. At the count of 3 or up to ten, active players try to move their leg in or out of the circle without being tagged by passive players.
4. Passive players form a squat circle holding hands and attempt to tag the legs of active players as they move in or out of the circle.
5. If an active player successfully moves their leg in or out of the circle, all active players go inside the circle for the next round.
6. The game continues with the active team trying to move their second leg in or out of the circle while being lifted over the hands of passive players.
7. The team that completes the task most times wins.
8. Rules can be modified, such as having active players move both legs simultaneously to increase complexity.

• Space: You will need enough space for all players to form two teams and move around safely. This can be indoors or outdoors.
• Players: Put One Leg In and Out is designed for medium to large groups, ideally with 6-14 players. Divide the group into two teams with equal numbers of players.
• Hands: Passive players will need their hands free to form a circle and tag the active players’ legs.
• Optional variation materials: If you choose to play the variation where active players must place both legs over the hands of passive players, you may want to have a soft surface available to prevent discomfort or injury.

To set up for the Put One Leg In and Out icebreaker activity, follow these steps:

1. Split the group into two teams of equal players. Label one team as the active team and the other as the passive team.
2. Have the passive team form a circle by squatting and holding hands. Ensure that everyone in the circle is comfortable and feels safe, with no risk of anyone toppling over.
3. Instruct the active team to stay near the circle, preparing to move their leg inside or outside the circle without being tagged by the passive players.

Remember, no materials are required for this activity, so there’s no need to gather any items. The focus is on setting up the teams and their positions to begin playing the game.

1. Split the group into two teams: I start by dividing our group into two teams with equal players. I explain to them that one team will be the active players, and their goal is to move their leg in and out of the circle without being touched. The other team will be the passive players, whose goal is to touch a player’s leg as they try to move in or out of the circle.
2. Form a circle with the passive team: I ask the passive players to squat down and hold hands, forming a circle. I ensure everyone feels comfortable and safe, making sure no one will topple over during the game.
3. Position active players around the circle: I have the active players stay near the circle while they wait for their turn to move their leg in or out of the circle without being tagged by the passive players.
4. Start the game: At the count of three (or I let the passive players count up to ten), all active players try to take their leg in or out of the circle simultaneously. Simultaneously, the passive players lift their hands to try and touch the legs of the active players.
5. Define winning conditions: The team that completes the task most times is declared the winner. I can make the game more complex by requiring both of the active player’s legs to be in or out of the circle at the same time.
6. Optional variation: If I want to change things up, I introduce a variation where the active players must place their leg over the hands of the passive players before attempting to move it in or out of the circle. This adds another layer of challenge and unpredictability to the game.

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• Encourages Physical Activity: Playing Put One Leg In and Out is a great way to get your group moving and active. This can be especially beneficial if you’ve been sitting for a long time, such as after a meeting or presentation.
• Fosters Teamwork: The passive team in the game must work together to form a circle and try to tag the active players. This encourages cooperation and communication among team members.
• Improves Reaction Time: The active team must quickly move their legs in and out of the circle without being tagged, which can help improve reaction time and agility.
• Breaks the Ice: Put One Leg In and Out is a fun and engaging icebreaker that can help break the tension and get your group laughing and having a good time together.
• Customizable: The rules of the game are flexible, allowing you to customize it to fit the needs and abilities of your group. This can make it more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
• No Materials Needed: Since Put One Leg In and Out requires no materials or preparation, it’s a convenient and easy icebreaker to organize on short notice.

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• Reaction time: Playing Put One Leg In and Out requires quick thinking and reflexes as players must move their legs in and out of the circle while avoiding being tagged by the passive team. This helps to improve reaction time and decision-making skills.
• Teamwork: Even though this game involves two teams competing against each other, it still requires a level of teamwork within each team to be successful. The passive team must work together to form a circle and coordinate their movements to tag the active team’s legs, while the active team must communicate and support each other to successfully move their legs in and out of the circle.
• Physical activity: Put One Leg In and Out is an active game that involves squatting, jumping, and quick movements, providing a fun way to get some exercise and promote physical activity.
• Social skills: As an icebreaker game, Put One Leg In and Out encourages players to interact with each other and work together in teams. This helps to build social skills, such as communication, cooperation, and relationship-building.
• Adaptability: The rules of the game can be easily modified to suit different age groups, group sizes, or skill levels, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in how the game is played.

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I like the Put One Leg In and Out icebreaker because it is a simple yet engaging game that requires no materials and can be played by groups of varying sizes and ages. The game’s objective, which involves active and passive teams working against each other, creates a fun and dynamic atmosphere that encourages teamwork and communication.

I also appreciate the flexibility of the game rules, as they can be easily modified to suit different skill levels or preferences. Additionally, playing this icebreaker in teams at random can help participants get to know each other better by working together towards a common goal. Overall, Put One Leg In and Out is an excellent choice for anyone looking to bring their group together for a fun and interactive activity.

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• Tip: Use simple language and clear instructions to ensure that all players can understand the rules of the game.
• Tip: Consider adapting the rules to accommodate players with mobility limitations, such as allowing them to use a chair or other support to move their leg in and out of the circle.
• Tip: Encourage active listening and communication between team members by having players switch roles (active and passive) after each round.
• Tip: Foster a positive and supportive environment by emphasizing fun and teamwork over competition.
• Tip: Use the game as an opportunity to encourage players to get to know one another by having them share their names, interests, or other icebreaker questions while they are waiting for their turn to play.
• Tip: Be mindful of cultural differences and make sure that the game is inclusive of all players, regardless of their background or identity.

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1. What did you enjoy most about playing Put One Leg In and Out? This question can help participants reflect on what they found enjoyable or fun about the game, which can be useful for facilitators to understand what activities work well for the group.
2. Did you find it challenging to move your leg in and out of the circle without being tagged? Why or why not? This question can help participants reflect on the skills they used during the game and identify any areas where they may need improvement.
3. How did you feel when you were part of the passive team and trying to tag the active players’ legs? This question can help participants reflect on their emotions and reactions during the game, which can be useful for facilitators to understand group dynamics and individual behavior.
4. Did you have a chance to interact with people you didn’t know before the game? If so, how did that go? This question can help participants reflect on the social aspects of the game and how it may have helped them build connections with others in the group.
5. Do you think Put One Leg In and Out was an effective icebreaker activity? Why or why not? This question can help participants reflect on the overall effectiveness of the game as an icebreaker and provide feedback for future activities.

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