Materials:
- A light stick (such as a bamboo rod or a light metal rod)
- Alternatively, several sheets of paper rolled and taped together to form a stick
Instructions:
- Participants stand in two rows facing each other.
- A light stick is placed on the outstretched index fingers of each team member.
- The stick must be horizontal and each person must have both index fingers under the stick.
- The goal is to lower the stick to the ground while keeping all fingers in constant contact with the stick.
- No finger should lose contact with the stick.
- As soon as the game begins, teams often find that instead of descending, the stick starts to rise as if by magic, hence the name "helium stick."
Process: Teams must work together, communicate effectively, and synchronize their movements to successfully lower the stick. This seems simple, but in practice, the required coordination can make the exercise quite challenging and hilarious. Participants need to adjust their strategy and improve their collaboration to succeed.
Why it's interesting for team building: The helium stick is an excellent activity for team building because it requires precise coordination and clear communication. Teams must adapt and adjust their approaches in real-time, which helps to strengthen collaboration and cohesion. Additionally, the challenge and initial failures often encountered during the exercise encourage team members to persevere together, thus enhancing collective resilience and mutual trust. The game is both fun and engaging, making it a memorable activity that can break the ice and foster a positive atmosphere.