Step-by-Step Instructions
This quick group energiser creates instant engagement through a simple challenge of speed and reaction time. Gotcha brings immediate energy to any gathering as participants focus intently on catching fingers while protecting their own. Perfect for meetings or training sessions that need a short break, this fast-paced energiser requires no equipment or preparation. The combination of physical touch, surprise and friendly competition makes it an effective way to wake up tired groups and build a positive atmosphere in just minutes.
Gotcha – Quick Group Energiser
- Form a circle, including yourself, facing inwards and standing side by side.
- Everyone holds their right hand palm-facing up towards their right-hand side neighbour.
- Everyone places the end of their left pointer finger into the open palm of their left-hand neighbour.
- On “GO,” everyone attempts to catch the finger of their partner in their right palm while also avoiding their finger being caught by their left-hand neighbour.
- A person who successfully catches a finger in their palm yells “GOTCHA!”
- Repeat several times.
- If time permits, try or invent a variation.
Video Tutorial Premium
How To Play Narrative Premium
Practical Leadership Tips Premium
Social-Emotional Learning Premium
Health & Wellness Programming Premium
Popular Variations Premium
You Might Also Like... Premium
Useful Framing Ideas Premium
Reflection Tips & Strategies Premium
Program Templates Premium
Source Premium
No Props No Problem
Brand NEW book featuring 150+ outrageously fun group games & activities. Scan QR codes to connect to tons of digital content including video tutorials.
Add to CartNew – TRY BEFORE YOU BUY
NEW – Latest Posts
Top Ten Icebreakers & Group Games
Download our free 28-page ebook jam-packed with outrageously fun activity ideas.
Wow, you’ve been busy!
You can open 1 more
activity for free.
Limit resets every 24 hours
or click below to get unlimited access.
Same with Mr Littlefield, ehem – we use hot/magic words as cues to catch-release/get-go/grab-run. Super helpful as a segue/as an introduction to a topic, or debriefing activity. Entry level could be: Magic words written on a wall. Level-up could be: nothing written, all memory.
It was very nice warm up and simple to explain to the group, Thank you very much
Definitely one of my go to activities especially at the initial part of a camp. Usually do the pair variation first and ask participants to introduce themselves then build up to whole group throwing in the other variations in as well.. very flexible activity and great to generate initial energy
So much fun in a large group! Fun to blend it in with a group’s content too by telling a story relevant to them using “hot words” that actually reinforce learning and content as well. Brilliantly simple and filled with laughter, guaranteed!