Fitness Capture the Cones

Four teams race to carry flat disc cones from a center zone back to their base, but each disc requires completing a strength challenge first. It builds endurance, strength, and strategy in a game with no elimination.

How to play

1. Set 4 bases in the corners of a 30 x 30 m (about 100 x 100 feet) area and place a circle in the center with 40 flat disc cones and 4 challenge cards (2 min).
2. Make 4 teams of 6 in colored pinnies. Each team starts at its base (1 min).
3. On the signal, teams head to the center; each student reads the card in their team color (for example, 8 jump squats), completes it, and carries one disc back to base. Only one per trip.
4. Once the center is empty, students may raid another base for a disc, but they must complete the double challenge on that base's card (6-minute block).
5. 1-minute break to count discs and swap the cards for new challenges.
6. Second 6-minute round with new challenges. Final count and a 2-minute discussion about each team's strategy (defend, attack, or split up).

Rules

• No grabbing discs out of anyone's hands or blocking a base with your body.
• Every challenge is completed fully where others can see it.
• Carry one disc per trip, walking or running, never throwing it.
• Look ahead while running to avoid collisions in the center.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: serve as base manager counting discs and complete seated arm challenges that earn a disc.
• Deaf or hard of hearing: start and end each round with a visual signal by raising a pinnie.
• Lower fitness level: always allowed to choose the easier version listed on the card.

Learning goals

• Sustain intense intermittent effort combining running and strength.
• Make strategic decisions as a team.
• Follow the rules and show good sportsmanship in competition.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cones: 8
• flat disc cones: 40
• pinnies: 24
• challenge cards: 8

Teacher tip

Spread the cards out away from the center to avoid crowding. If one team pulls far ahead, add a third round where the leading team gets tougher challenges.

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