Double Dutch Skill Levels Passport

Groups of five practice Double Dutch (two long ropes turned inward in alternating rhythm) and work their way through a six-level skills passport. Students build rhythm, timing between turners and jumpers, and the habit of coaching each other so the whole group improves.

How to play

1. Make groups of 5, each with two long ropes and a passport card: two students turn, one jumps, and two observe and count; rotate every 2 or 3 attempts (2 min).
2. Level 1, turning: the turners swing the ropes inward in alternating rhythm, like pedaling with their wrists, while the group calls one-two for 20 clean turns (4 min).
3. Level 2, entry: the jumper stands next to a turner, waits until the back rope passes in front of their face, runs in on a diagonal, and jumps 5 times; Level 3: 10 jumps alternating feet (5 min).
4. Level 4, exit: after 10 jumps the jumper runs out on a diagonal to the opposite side without touching a rope; Level 5: a half turn inside the ropes (4 min).
5. Level 6, hand-off: a second jumper enters while the first one exits, without the ropes stopping. The two observers sign off each level on the passport card (5 min).

Rules

• A level is signed off only after two successful attempts in a row.
• Ropes always turn inward, and turners hold the ends, never wrapped around their hands.
• Keep at least 13 feet between groups so no rope hits anyone.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student turns from a chair and leads the group's rhythm count.
• Shyness: keep groups stable and let the student first practice entries with slow turning and no audience.
• Fitness level: students who tire take more observer turns; confident jumpers try the bonus levels.

Learning goals

• Coordinate alternating rope turning with a partner.
• Enter, jump, and exit Double Dutch ropes by matching their rhythm.
• Help the group improve by observing and giving useful cues.

Equipment for a class of 25

• long ropes: 10
• challenge cards: 5

Teacher tip

Most misses come from the turners: have them keep elbows in and turn from the wrists. Calling the beat out loud makes entries much easier.

More activities like this

More main activities for Middle School