Cleanup with a Task: Paddle Taps on the Way to the Bin

Equipment cleanup becomes a control task: each ball goes back to the bin by tapping it gently on the paddle while walking. It brings heart rates down and leaves the court tidy.

How to play

1. Taps in place: 20 gentle taps upward, alternating paddle faces (1 min).
2. Cleanup with taps: scoop a ball off the ground with the paddle, no hands, and carry it to the bin tapping as you walk (3 min).
3. Chain hand-off: the last ones done pass the remaining balls paddle to paddle down to the bin (1 min).
4. Quiet wrap-up: each pair says in one sentence which stroke from today they want to practice again (1 min).

Rules

• Walk only, no running.
• If the ball drops, pick it up with the paddle, not your hand.
• Paddles go into the bin face down.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users: carry the ball on the paddle resting on the lap, or receive balls at the bin.
• Low vision: carry the ball in hand and walk with a partner guiding to the bin.
• Tired or sore students: pick up by hand and help count the equipment.

Learning goals

• Bring intensity down gradually.
• Keep fine paddle control while moving.
• Help put the equipment away.

Equipment for a class of 25

• padel paddles: 30
• padel balls: 30
• bins: 2

Teacher tip

Put the bins on the side opposite the door so the walk is longer. Count the balls at the end: you lose far fewer with this task.

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