Tug of War Strength Game

A sturdy rope at least 15-20 feet long

A bandana or ribbon tied to the rope's center

Chalk or a stick to mark the center line on the ground

Find a thick, sturdy rope. A climbing rope, thick cotton rope, or even a couple of jump ropes tied together will work. The rope should be at least 15 feet long.

Tie a brightly colored bandana to the exact center of the rope. This is your marker.

Draw a line on the ground in the center. The bandana should hang directly over this line at the start.

Divide into two teams with roughly equal total strength. If adults are playing, balance it by putting the adult on the team with fewer or younger kids.

Each team lines up on their side of the rope, gripping it with both hands. Everyone should be spaced out, not bunched up.

Count down: "Three, two, one, PULL!" Both teams pull with everything they've got.

The round ends when the center bandana crosses past either team's winning line (about 3 feet to either side of center).

Best of three rounds. Rearrange teams between rounds to keep it fair and fresh.

Tug of war is pure full-body strength: grip, arms, back, core, and legs all working at maximum effort. It's one of the best all-around strength activities for kids.

Teach proper pulling form: lean back, dig heels in, keep arms close to the body, and pull hand over hand. Leaning back uses body weight as leverage.

Play on grass, not pavement. If the rope slips or someone falls, grass is much more forgiving.

Never wrap the rope around hands, wrists, or any body part. Grip with open hands only. This is a critical safety rule.

If teams are uneven, add an adult to the weaker side or have kids switch teams. Close matches are more fun than blowouts.