Collect and Stretch: Every Cone Hides a Challenge

A cool-down cleanup where every cone hides a card with a stretch challenge that must be done before picking it up. It builds leg flexibility after running and teamwork in tidying up.

How to play

1. During the lesson, the teacher has placed a card under each cone on the loop. Explain the rule: lift a cone, do its challenge (1 min).
2. In pairs, walking, they collect the cones on half of the loop. At each one they read the card and do the stretch: for example, calf stretch against the wall for a count of 20 without lifting the heel (2 min).
3. Switch halves: pairs collect the rest of the cones, with challenges like a standing quad stretch on one foot touching the partner's shoulder (2 min).
4. Pairs bring the cones and cards to the cart and each says which stretch was hardest (2 min).

Rules

• Stretches are gentle, no bouncing.
• Hold each position for about 20 seconds.
• Walk, don't run, to the cones.
• If a stretch hurts, pick another card.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users: cards with a seated version of each stretch, and cones picked up with a grabber if needed.
• Visual impairment: the partner reads the card and guides the position with verbal cues.
• Injury: can skip cards for the injured area and be in charge of the cart.

Learning goals

• Stretch the muscles used in running.
• Put equipment away in an orderly way.
• Work with a partner on a final task.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cones: 20
• stretch cards: 20

Teacher tip

Laminate the cards and keep them with the cones to reuse. Place the cards while students are in the main activity; it takes a minute.

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