Figure-Eight Cone Relay with a Baton
Teams run a relay where each runner traces two figure eights around two cones, carrying the baton in the hand on the outside of each turn. Students practice running curves, leaning into turns, switching hands and passing the baton.
How to play
- Make 5 teams of 5 lined up behind a line. Place two cones in front of each line, 5 and 10 yards from the start (2 min).
- Explain the figure eight: go around the first cone to the right and the second to the left, twice, then sprint straight back. The baton always stays in the outside hand, so switch hands where the eight crosses.
- Technique round without racing: everyone runs once at 70% while the last student in line checks the hand switch (3 min).
- Race: at the end of each leg, hand the baton into the next runner's right hand while they wait still behind the line. Play 3 rounds; the team with the most wins takes it (6 min).
- Round four: the next runner may start moving when their teammate passes a cone 2 yards before the line, to practice a moving handoff (2 min).
- Debrief: each team shares what helped most to keep from swinging wide on the turns (2 min).
Rules
- Hand the baton over; never toss it. If it drops, the person who dropped it picks it up.
- Go all the way around the cones; skipping one means redoing the eight.
- Safety: lines stay 4 yards apart and waiting runners stay behind the line.
- Switch hands only on the straight part where the eight crosses.
Variations
Easier
Space the cones 7 yards apart and run just one eight.
Standard
Two eights with a hand switch and a standing handoff.
Harder
Run the second eight with a side shuffle and pass the baton on the move.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: spread the cones so a wheelchair can turn, with the baton resting on the lap.
- Autism or shyness: keep the same spot in line and a buddy to follow.
- Lower fitness: one eight and jog the way back.
Learning goals
- Run curves with a lean and short steps.
- Switch the baton between hands without losing speed.
- Pass and receive a baton safely in a relay.
Equipment for a class of 25
- cones: 10
- batons: 5
Teacher tip
Many students swing wide to avoid the cone, so draw a 1-yard chalk circle around it as a guide. Mix the teams to balance speed.
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