The Flying Carpet
Team Building activity : The Flying Carpet
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Team Building Activity: The Flying Carpet
Overview
Teams flip a large carpet or tarp without stepping off—framed as a fast turn to dodge a desert sandstorm. The challenge pushes coordination, calm problem solving, and clear cues under pressure.
Materials
- One large carpet or tarp per team (fits the whole team standing close)
- Visible timer
Preparation & setup
- Use a spacious, obstacle‑free area with buffer space around each team.
- Check carpets/tarps are clean and safe to stand on.
- Divide into teams of up to eight people.
Step‑by‑step instructions
- Form teams: Groups of up to eight.
- Positioning: Everyone stands on the carpet, feet fully on the surface, balanced and close.
- Scenario brief: “You’re on a magic carpet. A sandstorm approaches. Flip the carpet over without anyone stepping off.”
- Rules:
- At least one foot or body part stays in contact with the carpet at all times.
- No jumping, lifting people, or stepping off. If anyone touches the floor, restart.
- Challenge: Time each team. Fastest clean flip wins.
Safety tips
- Flat, dry, grippy surface only; avoid slick floors.
- Slow, controlled movement. Bend knees; keep balance.
- Pause if anyone feels unsteady; reset calmly.
Facilitator tips
- Ask teams to plan before the first attempt; nominate a caller for cues.
- Listen for brief, clear commands (e.g., “edge fold,” “step‑slide,” “hold”).
- Spot emerging leaders; invite quieter voices into the plan.
- Run a second round and compare strategies and times.
Debrief & discussion
- What sequence worked best for the flip?
- How did you communicate without losing balance?
- Who led—how did that help or hurt?
- What would you change on a second attempt?
- Where do these skills show up in your day‑to‑day work?
Alternative activities
The Shrinking Carpet
After a flip, fold the carpet in half and repeat. Each fold raises difficulty and forces new roles and tactics.
The Hovering Island
Place small items on the carpet. Flip it without dropping anything. Highlights planning, balance, and care.
Estimated time breakdown
| Activity part | Duration |
|---|---|
| Instructions & team setup | 3 minutes |
| Activity execution | 10 minutes |
| Debrief & reflection | 2 minutes |
Related training material packages
- Building High‑Performing Teams – roles, cohesion, alignment. View package →
- Communicating with Clarity & Impact – calls, cues, and alignment. View package →
- Creative Problem Solving & Decision Making – planning under constraints. View package →
Free assessment tools & quizzes
- Listening Style Quiz – attention and response. Take quiz →
- How Good a Listener Are You? – quick self‑check. Start self‑assessment →
- Explore more tools: Free self‑assessment library →
FAQ
What size carpet works best?
Large enough for the full team to stand with feet fully on the surface and some room to shift—usually conference‑room tarp size.
Can teams talk during the flip?
Yes, though a silent round adds challenge and spotlights non‑verbal cues.
What flooring is safest?
Carpeted or rubberized floors. Avoid tile or polished concrete unless using non‑slip mats.
Any accessibility adjustments?
Allow seated roles on the edge, reduce team size, slow the time element, or run a planning‑only simulation with a smaller cloth on a table.
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