British Bulldog
British Bulldog is a high-energy physical game in which one player stands in the center of the space while the rest attempt to run from one side to the other without being caught. Tagged players join the catcher for subsequent rounds until only one runner remains. The game builds physical confidence, spatial awareness, and group energy.
Worth Reading
See all books →
112 Acting Games
Gavin Levy

Group Improvisation
The Manual of Ensemble Improv Games
Peter Campbell Gwinn; Charna Halpern

Business Improv
Experiential Learning Exercises to Train Employees
Val Gee

Theater Games for Rehearsal
Viola Spolin

Improv Ideas
A Book of Games and Lists
Mary Ann Kelley; Justine Jones

Improvised Theatre and the Autism Spectrum
A Practical Guide
Gary Kramer; Richie Ploesch
Related Exercises
Commando
Commando is a high-energy physical game in which players navigate an imagined obstacle course or battlefield, reacting to called-out hazards and commands. The exercise demands full physical commitment and rapid shifts between actions. It raises group energy and breaks down self-consciousness through shared physical absurdity.
Millipede
Millipede is a physical ensemble exercise in which a line of players moves together as a single connected organism, typically with hands on the shoulders or waist of the person ahead. The group must coordinate speed, direction, and stops without verbal communication. The exercise builds physical trust and nonverbal group sensitivity.
Hot Potato
Hot Potato is a circle game in which an imagined object is passed rapidly around the group, and whoever holds it when a signal sounds must perform a task, answer a question, or be eliminated. The exercise raises energy and adds stakes to simple passing games. It builds speed and the comfort with being put on the spot.
Back Dancing
Back Dancing is a physical warm-up in which two players stand back to back and move together, each responding to the pressure and rhythm of the other's body. Without visual cues, players must rely on physical sensitivity to stay connected. The exercise builds nonverbal communication and physical trust.
Bunny Bunny
Bunny Bunny is a rhythm and focus game in which players pass energy around a circle by chanting "Bunny Bunny" with accompanying hand gestures while neighbors provide synchronized support sounds. The pace escalates until players break rhythm and are eliminated or the group collapses in laughter. The exercise trains concentration, timing, and ensemble cohesion.
Obstacle Course
Obstacle Course is a physical exercise in which players navigate a real or imagined series of obstacles using their bodies expressively. The exercise may be used to build physical confidence, practice environment work, or warm up the body before performance. It trains spatial awareness and encourages bold physical choices.
How to Reference This Page
The Improv Archive. (2026). British Bulldog. Retrieved March 17, 2026, from https://improvarchive.org/exercises/british-bulldog
The Improv Archive. "British Bulldog." The Improv Archive, 2026. https://improvarchive.org/exercises/british-bulldog.
The Improv Archive. "British Bulldog." The Improv Archive, 2026, https://improvarchive.org/exercises/british-bulldog. Accessed March 17, 2026.
The Improv Archive is a systemically maintained repository. The archive itself acts as the corporate author.