Section 3: Playing Area
Use a level, unobstructed area with a forgiving surface, such as well-maintained grass or an appropriate indoor activity surface. Do not play near traffic, walls, fences, trees, playground structures, holes, wet patches, loose gravel, ice, or other hazards.
Team Lines
The teams form parallel lines facing one another. For a typical recreational game, the lines should be about 6 to 9 metres (20 to 30 feet) apart. Younger players, beginners, and groups using a no-impact variation should use the shorter end of that range. The game leader may reduce the distance further to keep running speeds low.
Each line needs enough width for all team members to stand comfortably without stretching, crowding, or pulling one another sideways. Leave several metres of clear runoff space behind each line and at both ends so a runner can slow down safely.
Boundaries
If boundaries are used, establish them before play. A runner who deliberately leaves the agreed area to gain an advantage has an unsuccessful attempt. Minor accidental steps outside a boundary may be ignored when they do not affect the challenge.
Environmental Conditions
Stop play when visibility is poor or when heat, cold, rain, wind, or surface conditions make running or stopping unsafe. Indoors, allow extra clearance from walls and fixed objects. The playing area should be rechecked whenever conditions change.