Zip Zap Zop

Overview

Players stand in a circle and pass energy to each other using the words “Zip”, “Zap”, “Zop” in order. Each pass involves eye contact and a physical gesture (usually a clap or point) directed at the receiving player. The rhythm builds as the group gets faster.

Setup

• Stand in a circle, everyone facing the centre
• One player starts by making eye contact with someone across the circle and saying “Zip” with a clap or point
• That player passes to someone else with “Zap”
• The next says “Zop”, and the cycle resets to “Zip”

What It Develops

• Focus and concentration — you must track the sequence and be ready
• Eye contact — every pass requires a clear connection
• Ensemble rhythm — the whole group finds a shared pace
• Physical energy — the gestures and pace get the body moving

Common Mistakes

• Saying the wrong word in the sequence
• Passing without clear eye contact (ambiguous targets)
• Getting faster than the group can handle — speed should build organically
• Standing flat-footed instead of staying physically engaged

Variations

• Zip Zap Zop Boing: Add “Boing” which reverses direction back to the sender
• Silent Zip Zap Zop: Same game but using only eye contact and gestures, no words
• Elimination Round: Players who make mistakes step out (use sparingly — can create anxiety)

Where It Fits in a Session

A perfect opener. Use in the first 5 minutes to get everyone focused, present, and physically activated before moving into more demanding work.