Circle-Style Kabaddi One-on-One
A no-hold version of circle-style kabaddi from Punjab, where every raid is a duel between one raider and one stopper. Running several small circles at once, students work on reaction time, faking, and respect for the opponent in a very short duel.
How to play
- Draw 6 circles about 20 ft across with a line splitting each in half. Each circle has a group of 4: raider, stopper, and two judges.
- On the judge's signal, the raider leaves their half and has 8 seconds to tag the stopper's shoulder or arm with a hand and get back to their half.
- The stopper, staying inside the circle, tries to tag the raider's back with both hands at once before the raider crosses the line.
- If the raider tags and gets back, the raider scores 1 point; if the stopper tags them or time runs out, the stopper scores. Stepping out of the circle gives the opponent the point.
- Each pair plays 4 raids (2 each), then the judges play. Do 3 rotations of 5 minutes, switching circles and opponents.
Rules
- Tag only with an open hand: no pushing, grabbing, or tripping.
- No diving or sliding on the ground.
- Judges count out loud and their call is final.
- Greet your opponent before and after each duel.
Variations
Easier
Use 26-ft circles and give the raider 10 seconds.
Standard
20-ft circles, 8 seconds, and a two-hand tag by the stopper.
Harder
The raider must tag the stopper twice on different body parts before returning, with 10 seconds.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the duel is played walking, with both players always keeping one foot on the ground, and the raider may tag with a foam noodle.
- Shyness or anxiety: the student starts as a judge and chooses when to play.
- Lower fitness: rest one raid between duels and use a smaller circle.
Learning goals
- React quickly to an opponent's move in a small space.
- Use fakes and changes of pace to tag and escape.
- Officiate classmates fairly and respect their calls.
Equipment for a class of 25
- cones: 12
- chalk: 6
- stopwatches: 6
Teacher tip
Pair students of similar size and speed so duels are even and safe. Have the judges practice the start signal first so every circle runs the same way.
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