open · Team Building · 10–15 min · 3-40 people · high energy
Mighty Wind
Mighty Wind is a high-energy team game that fosters collaboration and friendly competition. Teams use fans to propel a table tennis ball towards their goal, encouraging strategic thinking and physical activity.
When to use Mighty Wind
Use this activity as an energizer to inject excitement and promote teamwork in a group setting, especially when needing a quick, engaging activity with minimal materials.
What it solves
Low energy levels, lack of team cohesion, need for a quick and engaging activity.
How to run Mighty Wind, step by step
- Divide the group into two or more teams. (2 minutes)
- Designate a goal area for each team in a large, open space. (3 minutes)
- Provide each participant with a fan (e.g., paper plate, folder). (2 minutes)
- Place one or more table tennis balls at the opposite end of the space from each team's goal. (1 minute)
- Instruct teams to use their fans to blow the ball(s) to their goal, without touching the ball or other players. Opposing teams can alter the ball's course. (5-10 minutes)
- Play multiple rounds, acknowledging the team with the most goals. (2 minutes)
Materials needed
- Table tennis balls
- Fans (paper plates, folders, etc.)
- Open space
- Goal markers
Facilitator tips
- Emphasize the 'no touching' rule to maintain fairness and safety.
- Encourage teams to strategize and communicate effectively.
Common pitfalls
- Players touching the ball: Clearly reiterate the rules and consequences.
- Uneven playing field: Ensure the space is free of obstacles and distractions.
Variations
- Use different sized balls or fans to adjust the difficulty.
- Introduce obstacles to navigate around.
- Vary the distance to the goal.
Running it online or hybrid
Adaptable for remote play by using virtual backgrounds as goals and screen sharing to observe progress. Participants can use any object as a 'fan'.
What it produces
Number of goals scored by each team.
Origin
Adapted from Playmeo — source
Build a session around Mighty Wind
METODIC places Mighty Wind inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.