Chinese Jump Rope: Jump Sequences From Ankles to Hips

La goma («the elastic») is a schoolyard game played in Spain, in Mexico (where it's called resorte), in the U.S. (Chinese jump rope) and in China: two players hold an elastic band around their legs and a third jumps step sequences that rise in height. It works on coordination, rhythm and motor memory, and is played in mixed groups.

How to play

1. Explain the game and its names in different countries. Groups of three with an elastic band about 3 meters long tied into a loop (2 min).
2. Basic steps at ankle height: in, out, on both sides, straddle and cross. Everyone tries and rotates (6 min).
3. A common eight-count sequence taught by the teacher, at ankles and then at knees (6 min).
4. Each trio invents its own sequence with a counted rhythm or a rhyme they make up (6 min).
5. Showcase: each trio teaches its sequence to another trio, who try to copy it (5 min).

Rules

• Holders keep their legs apart and still; if they feel a tug, they let the band go.
• When the jumper misses, they swap with a holder.
• Jump in sneakers on a non-slippery surface.
• Maximum height is the hips: higher raises the risk of getting caught.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a wheelchair user can hold the band around their wheels, or do the steps with their hands on a band on a table.
• Hearing impairment: count the rhythm on fingers or with visible claps.
• Ankle injury: hold the band and be the one who calls and corrects the sequence.

Learning goals

• Coordinate the feet in rhythmic sequences.
• Create and teach your own sequence.
• Learn a schoolyard game shared by several countries.

Equipment for a class of 25

• long elastic bands: 9

Teacher tip

If you don't have bands, make them from sewing elastic or chain together rubber bands. Make sure nobody treats it as a «girls' game»: coeducation starts with mixing up the trios.

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