Design a Cool-Down for Today's Sport
After the main part of the lesson, each group analyzes which muscles worked hardest in the sport played, picks three stretches for them, and teaches them to the class. Students learn to design a cool-down that fits the activity they just did.
How to play
- Students form five groups of five and the teacher writes the day's sport on the whiteboard, for example basketball, along with a stick figure of the body (1 min).
- Each group discusses which three muscle groups worked hardest and why, thinking about the sport's movements: jumping, running, throwing, or striking (2 min).
- One member from each group marks their three areas on the whiteboard figure with a marker; repeated areas show the class priorities (1 min).
- Each group picks one stretch for each of its areas and practices them for two minutes, checking for correct technique (2 min).
- Taking turns, each group leads the whole class in one of its stretches for about 40 seconds, explaining which muscle is stretched and why (3.5 min).
- Close: the class votes by show of hands on which area needed stretching most today (0.5 min).
Rules
- Every stretch chosen must be linked to a movement in the sport.
- Leading groups speak clearly and demonstrate slowly.
- Safety: the teacher checks the stretches before groups lead the class.
Variations
Easier
The teacher gives a list of six stretches and each group just picks the three that fit.
Standard
Each group analyzes the sport, chooses three stretches, and leads one.
Harder
Each group also suggests a partner stretch and explains when it would not be appropriate.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the group also prepares a seated version of each stretch it leads.
- Shyness: roles are split within the group and anyone who prefers not to speak demonstrates the stretch.
- Fitness level: more knowledgeable groups connect each area to a common injury in that sport.
Learning goals
- Analyze which muscles are used most in a specific sport.
- Design a cool-down that fits the activity done.
- Lead the class through a stretch with a clear explanation.
Equipment for a class of 25
- whiteboard: 1
- markers: 5
Teacher tip
This works best at the end of units on sports students already know.
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