Ninja

Purpose

Ninja is a fast-paced, physical game that sharpens reaction speed and gets participants fully present. Players take turns striking at opponents' hands in a circle, while others dodge. It creates bursts of laughter and competitive energy, making it an excellent energiser between content-heavy sessions.

At a glance

• Group size: 6–20
• Duration: 10 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Facilitation style: Self-organising
• Setting: In-person only

How to run

1. Stand in a circle with hands pressed together at centre height.
2. On "Go," everyone jumps back into a ninja pose.
3. Going clockwise, each player makes one swift movement to tap another player's hand (below the wrist).
4. The targeted player gets one movement to dodge.
5. If a hand is tapped, that hand goes behind the back. Lose both hands and you are out.
6. Play continues until 2–3 players remain.

Materials needed

• None

Pitfalls & common mistakes

• Too aggressive: Emphasise light taps, not strikes. Safety first.
• Arguments about hits: The facilitator or the group can be the judge — decide upfront.
• Slow turns: Each movement should be quick. No deliberating.
• Too many players: With more than 20, split into two circles.

Inclusion & accessibility

• Adapt for seated participants by allowing them to lean and dodge from their chair.
• The game requires arm and hand mobility — provide an alternative for those who cannot participate.
• Not suitable for virtual settings.
• Be mindful of personal space boundaries.

Variations

• Slow-motion Ninja: All movements must be in slow motion for a comedic effect.
• Team Ninja: Two teams on opposite sides of the circle.
• Musical Ninja: Add music; movements can only happen while music plays.

When NOT to use this

• In virtual settings.
• When physical contact (even light tapping) is inappropriate or unwelcome.
• In groups with significant mobility limitations.
• In formal corporate settings where physical games feel out of place.

Source & further reading

• Originally a playground and camp game, popularised in improv and youth work communities.
• Widely played at conferences and team offsites.