Calm Rope Coiling: Pack Up and Breathe
Cool-down in which pairs pack up the session's ropes using the butterfly coil, matching each arm length with a slow breath. It lowers arousal while teaching students to store gear so it does not tangle or get damaged.
How to play
- Demonstrate the butterfly coil: equal lengths on both sides of the neck, finished with wraps and a closing loop (2 min).
- In pairs, one holds the end and feeds the rope slowly; the other coils, matching each arm length with a long exhale (3 min).
- Switch roles with the pair's second rope (2 min).
- Hang the ropes or put them in the bag, and each pair visually checks a section for cuts or frayed spots (1 min).
Rules
- Do not step on ropes or drag them across a dirty floor.
- Breathe in through the nose and let the air out slowly with each arm length.
- Report any rope damage to the teacher immediately.
Variations
Easier
Coil on the floor in a figure-eight pattern instead of around the neck.
Standard
Butterfly coil in pairs, synced with breathing.
Harder
Coil with eyes closed while counting arm lengths, then check whether both sides are even.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: coils sitting down, over the knees or in a figure eight on a table.
- Visual impairment: learns the coil by touch, with a partner's hands guiding the first lengths.
- Anxiety or autism: keeps the same partner throughout and gets a breathing rhythm signaled by hand.
Learning goals
- Return to a calm state after a session with ropes.
- Learn to pack up and store a rope without damaging it.
- Treat gear inspection as part of safety.
Equipment for a class of 25
- ropes: 12
Teacher tip
With climbing ropes, the butterfly coil prevents the kinks that appear when ropes are wound around the elbow. Use the moment to teach them never to coil it that way.
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