Animal Kingdom Circuit
Each station represents an animal, and students move like it: frog jumps, bear walks, crab walks and kangaroo hops. The circuit works the whole body, builds strength and coordination, and encourages creativity.
How to play
- Mark 4 stations with a picture of each animal and split the class into 4 groups (1 min).
- Demonstrate each animal move: frog jumps (squat and spring forward), bear walk (hands and feet, hips up), crab walk (belly up), kangaroo hops (two feet together) (2 min).
- Groups move like their animal from one side of the station to the other for 1 minute (1 min per station).
- Rotate on the signal until everyone has tried all the animals; do two rounds (8 min).
- At the end, each group invents a new animal move and teaches it to the class (3 min).
- Finish with a slow 'sleepy animal' stretch (1 min).
Rules
- Keep space between you and other students.
- Move with good technique, not just speed.
- Rotate only on the signal.
- Land softly when jumping.
Variations
Easier
Use only two stations and allow rest breaks.
Standard
Rotate through four stations, 1 minute each.
Harder
Turn each station into a timed race across the area.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility or wheelchair users: imitate the animals with the upper body or using the chair, such as flapping wings or pawing.
- Autism or attention needs: use picture cards and keep the same order every round.
- Fitness level: allow shorter distances or a walk version of each animal.
Learning goals
- Develop strength and coordination through animal movements.
- Explore different ways of moving the body.
- Create and share new movement ideas.
Teacher tip
Young students love making the animal sounds, which also keeps them engaged. Use grass or mats for frog and kangaroo jumps.
PatioLab has "Animal Kingdom Circuit" and 599 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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