Dual Task: Juggling While Standing on Steps and Box Tops

Balancing on stable objects of increasing height combined with simple juggling, so students feel how divided attention affects performance. Students log their catches on each surface and analyze the results.

How to play

1. Set up stations from lowest to highest: a line on the floor, a low aerobic step of about 6 inches and a vaulting box top of 12-16 inches surrounded by mats (4 min).
2. Balance on one foot on each surface for 20 seconds, first freely and then fixing the eyes on one spot (4 min).
3. On the step, toss and catch two scarves alternately while keeping balance and counting catches in a row (6 min).
4. On the box top, with a spotter beside you offering a hand if asked: scarves or one ball hand to hand (6 min).
5. Analysis: compare catches on the floor, the step and the box, and explain why performance drops with height and the dual task (5 min).

Rules

• Only stable, solid surfaces: no balls, rollers or wobble boards.
• The highest surface is the box top, always with mats around it.
• If something drops, step down first, then pick it up.
• There is always a spotter next to the box top.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair user: does the dual task seated, reducing the base of support by sitting forward off the backrest.
• Visual impairment: works on the floor and step with a partner beside them and balls that make sound.
• Ankle injury: stays on the floor with both feet down and still records data.

Learning goals

• Improve static balance on raised stable surfaces.
• Experience how divided attention affects performance.
• Analyze one's own data to draw conclusions about motor control.

Equipment for a class of 25

• aerobic steps: 10
• vaulting boxes: 3
• juggling scarves: 50
• juggling balls: 30
• mats: 6

Teacher tip

Place the boxes against a wall or in a no-traffic area and check they do not move before starting. The final analysis ties in well with fall prevention in daily life.

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