Speed Bump Activity

Speed Bump is an obstacle avoidance game that encourages teammates to work together and practice effective communication. The game is among the top teamwork exercises.

Spread large objects randomly around the room. Split the group into pairs or small groups of up to four.

Blindfold one participant.
Instruct the other group members to lead the blind teammate through the obstacle course towards the finish line.

Any large object will work for the speed bumps. Cardboard boxes are easiest to obtain, but you can also set up obstacles like giant teddy bears, inflatable yard decorations, bowling pins, or kiddy pools full of plastic balls for added fun.

For an extra bit of entertainment, you can also set up a “lego walk,” at the end of the course. Place a tarp on the ground and tape off a thin lane in the middle. On either side of the lane, spread out loose legos.

Teammates will need to guide the blindfolded, barefoot team member safely through the path using hands and directions.

Speed Bump practices the fine art of giving and deciphering instructions and builds trust between team members.

Moment of Reflection

• What kind of sensations did you experience while the group guided you?
• What was the most challenging part of the game and why?
• How did the group work together to be successful?
• On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being excellent), how would you rate your group’s communication?
• If you did this exercise again, what would you do differently?

The topics of this publication: interactions, active listening, adaptation, teamwork, trust, foster relationships