Yurt Circle Group Counterbalance

The group holds wrists in a circle and alternately leans in and out until everyone is supported by counterbalance. It is a trust activity that demands postural control, shared tension and communication.

How to play

1. Form circles of 10 or 12 students (an even number), feet hip-width apart, holding wrists; count off alternating 1 and 2 (2 min).
2. Tension check: everyone leans back slightly with a straight body until the circle pulls evenly (2 min).
3. On "Ones in," the 1s lean toward the center and the 2s lean out; hold 5 seconds and return slowly. Four reps, switching roles (3 min).
4. Continuous wave: switch from one position to the other on a 4-count, for 6 to 8 changes (2 min).
5. Final challenge: from the counterbalance, squat down and stand up without letting go, first on a count and then in silence (2 min).
6. Each circle shares which signal helped them stay in sync (1 min).

Rules

• Always grip at the wrists, never the fingers.
• Lean gradually and stop when anyone says "Stop."
• Keep the body straight as a plank, without bending at the hips.
• Safety: no one lets go suddenly; return to upright before leaving.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student joins a circle of chairs using trunk leans.
• Autism or touch sensitivity: the student connects by holding a scarf instead of wrists.
• Differences in size or strength: alternate partners of similar size and limit the lean.

Learning goals

• Maintain postural control in shared balances.
• Trust the group and take responsibility for its safety.
• Synchronize movements with verbal and nonverbal signals.

Teacher tip

Start with very small leans and alternate students of similar weight. Watch for locked knees and bent hips, which is where the counterbalance breaks down.

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