Centipede: The Group Linked at the Ankles

Groups walk with their ankles tied to their neighbor's, first in pairs and then in bigger and bigger groups. It builds a shared rhythm, communication, and safe group movement.

How to play

1. Pairs with inside ankles tied with a scarf: walk 10 meters and back, calling the step out loud (3 min).
2. Trios, with the middle person tied on both sides. Walk straight and go around a cone (4 min).
3. Groups of 5 on a cone course with two turns (5 min).
4. Groups of 6 to 8 with a low obstacle: step over a rope on the floor without touching it (5 min).
5. Untie, check that nobody is hurting, and discuss which step call worked (3 min).

Rules

• Walk, never run.
• Loose knot with an easy-release bow; never a hard knot.
• Arms on the neighbor's shoulders or waist; if anyone falls, everyone stops.
• Flat surface, no slopes or steps.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users: the group links to the chair with a short rope, and they set the pace.
• Ankle injury or instability: link by hand instead of ankle and stand on an end.
• Visual impairment: stand in the middle, with both neighbors announcing each step.

Learning goals

• Match your own pace to the group's.
• Use a verbal cue to coordinate stepping.
• Move safely as a group.

Equipment for a class of 25

• scarves: 30
• cones: 15
• ropes: 3

Teacher tip

Use scarves or wide strips of fabric, never thin rope against skin. The usual mistake is the fastest person pulling: have the middle person call the step.

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