Acrosport With Props: Sticks, Hoops and Balls in the Figure

Groups add a prop to figures they already know to make them more striking and expressive. Students practice holding balance with one hand busy and give the figure an artistic purpose.

How to play

1. In groups of three or four, review two figures already learned, no props (5 min).
2. Each group grabs a prop and tries where to put it: held up by the flyer, held by two bases like a frame, or passed hand to hand during the build (7 min).
3. Swap round: each group trades props and adapts the same figure (7 min).
4. Final pick: one figure with a prop, with an entrance, a 5-second hold and an exit (6 min).
5. Mini showcase: groups show their figure to another group, who says what it made them feel (5 min).

Rules

• Props are held only by someone whose other hand is free or who isn't bearing weight.
• Sticks stay vertical or horizontal above the waist, never pointed at faces.
• If a prop drops, let it go: nobody reaches down for it from up top.
• Props off the mat when not in use.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: part of the figure as the frame, holding the hoop or ribbon from a wheelchair or seated.
• Visual impairment: use bell balls or large props, and the partner calls out positions.
• Nervous students: choose to handle the prop from the floor.

Learning goals

• Hold balance with one hand busy.
• Give the figure an artistic, expressive purpose.
• Adapt a known figure to a new element.

Equipment for a class of 25

• gym mats: 14
• pvc sticks: 10
• hoops: 10
• foam balls: 10
• rhythmic gymnastics ribbons: 6

Teacher tip

Ribbons can be swapped for crepe paper or scarves tied to a short stick. The usual mistake is putting the prop in the hardest figure; ask them to use it in the one they control best.

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