Section 3: Playing Area
Spread the mat fully on a level, clean, dry floor. A carpeted or other slightly cushioned surface can reduce sliding, but thick or uneven flooring may make the mat bunch. Do not place the mat on stairs, concrete, loose rugs, wet grass, gravel, or near furniture with sharp edges.
Keep a clear safety zone around every side of the mat. Players often lean or fall beyond its edges, so move chairs, tables, drinks, cords, toys, and breakable objects well away from play. Spectators and waiting players must remain outside this clear area.
Mat orientation
The colored rows run lengthwise along the mat. For a two-player game, the players generally begin at opposite ends, facing one another along the length of the mat. For larger games, starting positions should be distributed so that every player can enter without stepping over someone else.
Starting positions
- Two players: Each player stands at an opposite short end and places one foot on the nearest yellow circle and the other foot on the nearest blue circle.
- Three players: Two players may start at opposite short ends as above. The third starts along one long side with feet on the two central red circles, or in another balanced position agreed upon before the first spin.
- Four or more players: Use a team format, elimination heats, or agreed starting circles that do not overlap. Avoid crowding more players onto the mat than can move safely.
A starting position may be adjusted for a smaller mat, younger players, or limited mobility. Any adjustment should give the players comparable reach and should be announced before play begins.