MSU Extension 4-H Advisory Group Support

Every meeting should include learning, fun and business. Through icebreaker activities, you can build trust, learn about group members’ strengths and weaknesses, and gain insight on how to work together. This Michigan State University Extension article is part of a series on icebreakers that can be done with simple supplies that group facilitators often already have on hand or could be acquired easily. A video of the activity is also available on MediaSpace.

Hula hoop races 

Supplies needed

• Hula hoops
  • Two for each group of participants
• A timer
  • Most cell phones have timers

Directions:

1. OPTIONAL: Break larger groups into smaller groups with roughly the same number of people.
2. Have each group form a circle and instruct everyone to hold hands.
3. Have one pair unclasp their hands so you can put a hula hoop on them. Then reclasp their hands through the hula hoop.
4. Start your timer. See how long it takes the group to get the hoop all the way around the circle without unclasping their hands.
5. Debrief:
1. How did it go? Is there anything you think you can do to improve your group's time?
6. Repeat the activity again. See if the groups can improve their time.
7. Debrief:
1. Did the groups do better or worse? Why? 
2. Are there any other changes you would like to make?
8. Repeat the activity again. This time, have the group move the hula hoop in the opposite direction around the circle
9. Say it is time to “level up.” Explain that this time, there will be two hula hoops going in opposite directions around the circle and add the second hoop to the circle of clasped hands.
10. Debrief:
1. Did your group beat your original time? 
2. What changes did the group make between and during each round?

MSU Extension and the Michigan 4-H Youth Development program help to prepare youth as positive and engaged leaders and global citizens by providing educational experiences and resources for youth interested in developing knowledge and skills in these areas. This article is part of the 4-H Advisory Groups Toolkit. For more information about 4-H learning opportunities and other 4-H programs, contact your local MSU Extension office.