Tug of War

Tug of War is a simple but exciting game. Two teams grab opposite ends of a thick rope and pull as hard as they can. The team that pulls the other team past a center line wins.

How to Play

A long rope is laid out with a marker in the middle. Two teams line up on each side and grab the rope. When someone says "Go!" both teams start pulling. The goal is to drag the other team past the center line.

Players lean back and dig their feet into the ground. Everyone has to pull together at the same time. Teamwork and strength are both very important.

History of Tug of War

Tug of War has been played for thousands of years. Ancient people in Egypt, Greece, and China all played it. It was even an Olympic sport from 1900 to 1920.

Today, Tug of War is played at field days, fairs, and picnics. Some countries take it very seriously and have national teams. There is even a Tug of War International Federation that holds world championships.

Fun Facts

• Tug of War was an Olympic sport for five different Games.
• Ancient Egyptian carvings show people playing Tug of War.
• The longest Tug of War rope ever used was over 2,000 feet long.

Did You Know?

In some parts of Asia, Tug of War is played as part of special festivals and can have hundreds of people on each side of the rope!