Zip Zap Zop
Fast-paced energy passing game - point, clap, say the word, pass the energy. Classic improv warmup.
3-7 min
5-50 people
high
None needed
About This Game
Zip Zap Zop is a rapid energy-passing game from improv theater. Standing in a circle, one person points to another, claps, and says "Zip!" That person immediately points to someone else, claps, and says "Zap!" Continue with "Zop!" then back to "Zip!" The speed and focus required creates instant energy and presence.
Objectives
- Boost energy instantly
- Practice focus and presence
- Build group synchronicity
- Create playful atmosphere
How to Run This Game
Facilitator Script:
"Everyone in a circle! We're playing Zip Zap Zop - it's all about energy and focus. Watch: I point at someone, clap, and say 'Zip!' They immediately point at someone else, clap, say 'Zap!' Next person: point, clap, 'Zop!' Then back to Zip. The pattern is always Zip-Zap-Zop. Let's try!"
Actions:
- Get everyone in circle (or on screen)
- Demonstrate slowly: point, clap, word
- Emphasize: eye contact, point clearly, loud voice
- Practice pattern: Zip → Zap → Zop → Zip
Tips:
- • For virtual: point at screen/name
- • The clap adds energy
- • Make eye contact before passing
Facilitator Script:
"Now let's go FAST! Keep the energy moving. If you mess up, just keep going - we're going for flow, not perfection. Ready? Zip!"
Actions:
- Start slow, build speed
- Encourage: loud voice, big gestures
- When someone messes up: laugh and continue
- Play 2-3 rounds, getting faster
Tips:
- • Common mistakes: saying wrong word, not pointing clearly
- • That's OK! The mistakes are funny
- • Goal: create flow state
- • Music can help keep energy up
Facilitator Script:
"Last round - as fast as possible! Ready? ZIP!"
Actions:
- One final fast round
- End with applause
- Notice the energy shift
Tips:
- • People should be smiling/laughing
- • Great pre-brainstorming energizer
Facilitator Tips
- Adapted from improv theater warmups
- Perfect 5-minute energy boost
- The faster it goes, the more fun
- Mistakes are encouraged - they add to the fun
- Can add variations: Whoosh-Pow-Boom, etc.
Common Challenges & Solutions
Variations & Adaptations
Two sequences running simultaneously
Team creates their own three-word pattern
teams have used this game