Blanket Carry Relay

The Blanket Carry Relay game is a fun and active way for youth to work together as a team. It gets everyone moving and builds cooperation. Each player takes turns carrying and being carried, so every person feels included. This helps develop a sense of belonging and teamwork.
Playing this game encourages communication. The group must talk to each other to carry the blanket safely and quickly. They learn how to listen and give clear instructions. These skills are important in both games and everyday life.
The game also helps build trust. Being carried on a blanket requires trust in your teammates. At the same time, those carrying the blanket must be careful and dependable. This creates a strong bond among the group members.
Finally, the Blanket Carry Relay is a great way for youth to stay active. It provides exercise in a fun and exciting way. Running, lifting, and working together build strength and stamina while also creating joy and laughter.
Carrying Each Other in Faith
The Blanket Carry Relay game can remind us of the story of the paralyzed man in the Gospel of Mark (Mark 2:1-12). His friends carried him on a mat to see Jesus, even lowering him through the roof to bring him to the Lord. This story teaches us about helping others and trusting in Jesus. In the game, players take turns being carried, which reflects how we sometimes need others to help us in our journey of faith.
This game also connects to the idea of carrying burdens for one another, as St. Paul teaches in Galatians 6:2. He says, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so you will fulfill the law of Christ.” When youth lift and carry their teammates, they practice caring for others. It shows how we can support each other, not just physically but also in our struggles and challenges.
The game can also symbolize the idea of service, as Jesus showed when He washed the feet of His disciples (John 13:12-15). Taking turns to carry and be carried shows humility and kindness. It helps youth see the importance of putting others before themselves, just as Jesus taught us to serve one another.
In youth ministry, this game brings Scripture to life. It connects physical action to spiritual lessons in a fun way. Youth experience how faith is not just about words but also about what we do. It encourages them to live out their faith in small but meaningful ways.
Blanket Carry Relay Rules and Instructions
Equipment/Materials
- One blanket per team
- Masking tape
- Markers
- Cones or similar objects to mark the start and turnaround points
Setup Instructions
- Use masking tape and markers to label the four corners of each blanket with the numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4.
- Divide the group into teams of five. If the group cannot divide evenly, see the notes for variations.
- Give one blanket to each team.
- Mark a starting line with cones.
- Place a turnaround cone at the far end of the play area for each team. Adjust the distance to make the game shorter or longer.
Game Play Instructions
- Each team spreads their blanket flat on the ground at the starting line.
- One team member lies down in the center of the blanket. The other four stand at the numbered corners of the blanket.
- At the signal to start, each team picks up their blanket by the corners and carries the teammate on the blanket around the turnaround cone and back to the starting line.
- Once back at the start, all team members rotate positions:
- The person who was carried moves to corner #1.
- The person at corner #1 moves to corner #2.
- The person at corner #2 moves to corner #3.
- The person at corner #3 moves to corner #4.
- The person at corner #4 lies down on the blanket.
- Teams repeat this process until each player has been carried and has taken each position.
- The first team to complete all rotations wins.
Notes and Variations
- For More Challenge: Place small objects on the blanket for players to balance as they run. If the object falls off, they must stop and replace it before continuing.
- Team Size Adjustments: If some teams have six players, have one person sit out each round. All teams must complete six rounds to keep it fair. Teams of five repeat their first positions for the extra round.
- Safety Tips: Ensure the play area is flat and free of obstacles to prevent tripping or falling. Players carrying the blanket should move carefully and avoid sudden jerks or drops.
- For Younger Groups: Use a shorter distance or allow a smaller team size to make the game easier.
Resources

More Youth Ministry Games
The Blanket Carry Relay game is just one example of a fun and meaningful activity for youth groups. It helps teach important lessons while keeping everyone active and engaged. For more ideas like this, visit our youth ministry games page. You’ll find a variety of games to inspire faith, build relationships, and create memorable experiences for your group.
Questions and Answers
What is the Blanket Carry Relay game?
The Blanket Carry Relay game is a team activity where players take turns carrying a teammate on a blanket around a marked course. Everyone gets a chance to carry and be carried.
What do I need to play the Blanket Carry Relay game?
You will need one blanket per team, masking tape, markers to label the blankets, and cones or markers for the start and turnaround points.
How many people can play on each team?
Each team works best with five players, but you can adjust for larger or smaller groups. For six players, one person sits out each round.
Is the Blanket Carry Relay game safe?
Yes, it is safe if played on a flat surface free of obstacles. Players should carry the blanket carefully to avoid dropping their teammate.
Can younger kids play the Blanket Carry Relay game?
Yes, younger kids can play. You can shorten the distance or use smaller blankets to make it easier for them.
How can I make the Blanket Carry Relay game more challenging?
You can increase the distance or add objects to balance on the blanket. If the object falls, the team must stop and replace it before continuing.
Don’t Drop the Blanket!
The Blanket Carry Relay game is a lively, action-packed activity perfect for youth groups. Teams work together to carry one teammate on a blanket around a course, switching roles after each lap. The game keeps everyone engaged and ensures every player gets a chance to be both a carrier and a rider. It’s a fun mix of running, lifting, and laughing.
This game is more than just entertainment. It can connect to themes of trust and service. Being carried teaches humility and reliance on others, while carrying teaches responsibility and care. These lessons tie beautifully into faith and Scripture.
The Blanket Carry Relay game is also adaptable. You can adjust the rules, distances, or team sizes to fit your group. It’s a fantastic way to get youth moving and reflecting on how they can support others in their daily lives.
Your Turn
Ready to try the Blanket Carry Relay game? Gather your team, grab some blankets, and get moving! This game is a great way to bring faith and fun together in youth ministry.
Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments. Did you make changes or add a new twist? Let others know what worked for your group. We’d love to hear your tips, ideas, and success stories!
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