Wrist-Grip Line Pull Duels

In pairs, facing each other across a line and gripping wrists, each student tries to pull their partner over to their side. Students build pulling strength, a low base, and control when letting go.

How to play

1. Mark lanes with cones on the court lines; one pair stands on each line, one step apart (2 min).
2. Teach the base: feet wide, knees bent, back straight, and a mutual right-hand wrist grip (1 min).
3. On the whistle, each pulls to make the other step onto their side with both feet; 10 seconds max or it is a tie.
4. Play 3 duels with each hand; then winners move one lane right and the other player moves one lane left (8 min).
5. Finish with a two-hand round and discuss how to lower the center of gravity (4 min).

Rules

• To finish, say "releasing" and ease off slowly, never suddenly.
• Grip the wrist only; no twisting arms or pulling clothes.
• Keep 10 feet between pairs; if someone falls, replay.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: plays in a wheelchair with brakes on against a seated partner, pulling until their back leaves the backrest.
• Hearing impairment: replace the whistle with a raised and dropped arm.
• Fitness level: the weaker student uses two hands against one.

Learning goals

• Keep a stable base by lowering the center of gravity.
• Control pulling force and release safely.
• Accept results with good sportsmanship.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cones: 12

Teacher tip

The typical mistake is pulling with straight arms and the trunk leaning forward: have them pull with legs and hips. Letting go suddenly can send a partner falling backward.

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