Seated Stick Pull

A traditional strength duel where two students sit with the soles of their feet pressed together, grip a stick, and pull to lift the other off the floor. Students work on pulling strength, correct back posture, and staying in control as the duel ends.

How to play

1. Pairs of similar weight sit on a mat facing each other, knees bent and soles of the feet pressed against their partner's soles (2 min).
2. Both grip the stick above their feet with two hands in an alternating grip, one hand outside, one inside, like on a bar. Review posture: straight back, straight arms, and the power comes from the legs and back (2 min).
3. On 'Pull!', each player pulls back gradually. You win by lifting your opponent off the floor so their seat leaves the mat, or by making them let go of the stick.
4. Each duel is best of three pulls, 15 seconds max each, switching hand order on every pull so no one has an advantage.
5. Ladder rotation: winners move one mat to the right and the others one mat to the left; five rounds in total (7 min).
6. Cool-down: seated partner stretches for the back and forearms (2 min).

Rules

• No sudden releases: when there is a winner, the judge says 'Release' and both let go slowly.
• If the back rounds, stop and restart the pull.
• Place a mat behind each puller in case they fall backward.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited leg mobility: pull seated in facing chairs without foot contact, winning by drawing the stick to your chest.
• Autism or shyness: start as a judge for one pair, then pull with a trusted partner.
• Fitness level: pair by strength and weight; a weaker student may use two hands against the opponent's one.

Learning goals

• Apply pulling strength by coordinating the legs, back, and arms.
• Keep a safe back posture during an intense effort.
• Control the end of the effort so the partner is never put at risk.

Equipment for a class of 25

• dowels: 13
• mats: 13

Teacher tip

Check the sticks: they must be smooth, free of splinters, and have capped ends. The riskiest moment is the release, so insist that students always let go on the judge's call and never by surprise.

More activities like this

More main activities for High School