Outdoor
Wheelbarrow Race
Also called Kartilya race, Human wheelbarrow
One partner walks on their hands while the other holds their legs like a wheelbarrow; first pair to the finish wins.
- people
- 6–30
- time
- 10 min
- energy
- High
- materials
- No materials
Kids-safeFriends only
Before you start
Mark a short straight course of 8–10 m on soft grass. Pair players of similar size.
- 1The 'wheelbarrow' lies face down with hands under the shoulders.
- 2The 'driver' lifts their partner's legs, holding them at the knees or thighs, not the ankles.
- 3On “Go!”, the wheelbarrow walks on their hands to the finish while the driver walks behind at their pace.
- 4If the wheelbarrow collapses, the pair resets where they fell. Swap roles for the return leg.
What to say3
- 1“Drivers, hold at the knees — not the ankles!”
- 2“Wheelbarrows, ready… GO!”
- 3“Collapse in lane 2! Reset and keep rolling!”
Host tips3
- Drivers push faster than their partner can walk on their hands, and the wheelbarrow face-plants. Rule: the wheelbarrow sets the pace; drivers who push get disqualified.
- Holding the ankles arches the back and kills the arms in 3 m. Demonstrate the knee hold before the first heat.
- Adults' arms give out fast. For grown-ups, keep the course to 5 m or skip it.
Variants2
Relay
Teams of four: two pairs, one does the out leg, the other the return.
Obstacle
Add a slalom of cones. Slower, safer, and fairer for smaller kids.
Safety3
- Face and wrist injuries happen when the wheelbarrow collapses — grass only, short distance, and the driver controls the pace.
- Hold at the knees or thighs to protect the lower back.
- Close contact and awkward positions — not for adults in skirts, seniors, pregnant guests, or anyone with wrist or back problems.
Good for
Occasions
SchoolBirthdayFiestaReunion
Venues
Outdoor