Caterpillar Race

Item needed:

No items required
open

Min players:

10

Max players:

Required age:

6

Average cost:

$0

Game duration(Mins):

15 - 30
Divide into two teams. Both teams divide again into two lines and then sit with their feet touching one another. Number each pair. When a number is called, those two must run around their team’s “caterpillar”, over all the legs of their team members, and back to their original spot. The team back first is the winner.

Game Overview

Caterpillar Race is an exciting and dynamic team game that encourages cooperation, coordination, and a bit of friendly competition. Players are divided into teams and must work together to win the race by quickly navigating around their team’s “caterpillar”.

Number of Players

  • Minimum: 10 players
  • Maximum: No maximum

Age Limit

  • Suitable for ages 6 and up

Game Duration

  • Typically 15-30 minutes, depending on the number of players and rounds played.

Required Items

  • None (just an open space large enough for all players to sit and run)

Game Setup

  1. Form Teams: Divide players into two equal teams. Each team should have at least five players.
  2. Create Lines: Each team divides into two lines facing each other. Players in each line sit on the ground with their feet touching the feet of the player directly opposite them, forming a “caterpillar”.
  3. Numbering: Number each pair of players within the caterpillar. For example, if each team has five pairs, number them from 1 to 5.

Game Rules

Starting the Game

  1. Ensure all players are seated with their feet touching the opposite player’s feet.
  2. A game leader or referee stands where they can observe both teams.

Playing the Game

  1. The game leader calls out a number (e.g., “3!”).
  2. The players with that number in each team (e.g., both number 3s) must quickly stand up, run around the outside of their team’s caterpillar, and navigate over the legs of their team members to return to their original spots.
  3. Players must be careful not to step on or trip over their teammates’ legs.
  4. The first player to sit back in their original spot wins the round for their team.

Winning the Game

  • The team that wins the most rounds is declared the overall winner.

Safety Rules

  • Players should run carefully to avoid stepping on others.
  • Encourage good sportsmanship and fairness.
  • Ensure the play area is free from obstacles that could cause tripping or falling.

Variations

  • Relay Race: Instead of running around the caterpillar, players can pass a small object (like a bean bag) to the next pair, who then run their leg of the race.
  • Obstacle Course: Add simple obstacles around the caterpillar to increase the challenge.