Base Tag: Build a Figure to Be Safe

A tag game where the only way to be safe is to build a two-person figure in seconds. It raises the heart rate and reviews basic acrosport supports.

How to play

1. Explain and demo the two safe figures: "bench" (one on all fours, the other sitting sideways with hands on their back) and "bridge" (both in a plank facing each other, touching palms) (2 min).
2. Four taggers in pinnies. Anyone about to be tagged finds a partner and builds a figure; while they hold it, they can't be tagged. Hold 5 seconds, then split up (3 min).
3. Add the "chair" figure: one partner squats with their back against the other's back. Switch taggers (3 min).
4. Final round: figures only count if a group of three builds them (2 min).

Rules

• Whoever is tagged puts on the pinnie and becomes a tagger: nobody sits out.
• In the bench figure, hands go on the partner's shoulders or hips, never the middle of the back.
• No diving into a figure: walk the last two steps.
• Hold a figure 5 seconds max, then split up and run.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: play as a tagger with a soft ball rolled at the feet, or as the figure judge.
• Uncomfortable with contact: the bridge can be done without touching palms, a hand's width apart.
• Visual impairment: play holding hands with a fixed partner, and they build the figure with a third student who calls them over.

Learning goals

• Get the body going with running and changes of pace.
• Choose a partner and a figure quickly under pressure.
• Remember the correct places to support a partner.

Equipment for a class of 25

• pinnies: 4
• gym mats: 8

Teacher tip

Set up a mat zone in the middle of the gym just for figures, so nobody builds one mid-run. Watch for the same pairs always teaming up; the trio round mixes them up naturally.

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