Mexican Wave

Purpose

The Mexican Wave (La Ola) is a quick, physical energiser that gets everyone on their feet in synchrony. The familiar stadium wave creates an instant sense of group cohesion and shared fun. It is perfect as a 30-second reset between sessions or when energy dips after lunch.

At a glance

• Group size: 8–200
• Duration: 5 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Facilitation style: Facilitator-led, whole group
• Setting: In-person only

How to run

1. Everyone stands (or sits and raises arms).
2. The facilitator starts by standing up and raising hands, then immediately sitting back down.
3. The next person follows, then the next — creating a wave that travels around the room.
4. Once the wave completes a full loop, speed it up.
5. Try reversing direction or adding a sound ("Wooo!") to each rise.

Materials needed

• None

Pitfalls & common mistakes

• Unclear starting direction: Point in the direction the wave should travel.
• People not watching: Ask everyone to keep their eyes on their neighbours.
• Too few rounds: One round is a warm-up; two to three rounds build energy.
• Forcing standing: Allow seated participants to raise arms instead.

Inclusion & accessibility

• Easily adapted: seated participants raise arms or upper body.
• No speaking required.
• Simple enough for any group, regardless of language or cultural background.
• Not suitable for virtual settings.

Variations

• Sound wave: Add a shout, clap, or word as the wave passes.
• Slow-motion wave: Slow it down for a comedic, theatrical effect.
• Double wave: Start two waves from opposite sides of the room.

When NOT to use this

• In virtual settings.
• In very small groups (under 8) where the wave effect does not work.
• When quiet focus is needed immediately after.

Source & further reading

• Popularised by stadium crowds at the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico.
• Universally used as an energiser in facilitation, education, and events.