Guided Hip-Hop Activation
A warm-up with basic hip-hop steps led to the beat of the music and linked into a 16-count sequence. It warms up the whole body and develops rhythm, coordination and body expression.
How to play
- Arrange students in staggered rows facing the teacher, with room to spread their arms; play music with a clear beat (1 min).
- Step 1, bounce: bend the knees in place to the beat, first down then up (1 min).
- Step 2, step touch: step to the side and bring the feet together, adding an arm swing (1.5 min).
- Step 3, simplified running man: one knee lifts while the other foot slides back, first at half speed (1.5 min).
- Link the three steps into a 16-count sequence and repeat it several times with rising energy (2 min).
- Rows switch so the back row comes to the front, and the whole sequence is repeated (1 min).
Rules
- Everyone dances at their own level, with no teasing.
- Respect your classmates' space.
- Stop when the teacher raises a hand.
- Shoes tied tight to avoid slipping.
Variations
Easier
Only bounce and step touch, with the count called out loud.
Standard
Three steps linked in a 16-count sequence.
Harder
In groups of 4, students create and teach the class a 32-count sequence.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: arm, trunk and head version from the wheelchair, following the beat.
- Shy students: dance in the middle of the group or in the back rows, never out front.
- Hearing impairment: mark the beat with visible claps and count on the fingers.
Learning goals
- Warm up the body gradually to music.
- Match movement to the musical beat.
- Link steps into a simple choreographed sequence.
Equipment for a class of 25
- speaker with music: 1
Teacher tip
Always count '5, 6, 7, 8' out loud before each step. Choose clean songs at about 90 to 100 beats per minute.
PatioLab has "Guided Hip-Hop Activation" and 599 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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