Guided Partner Stretching
Guided partner stretching: pairs help each other hold gentle stretches while the teacher guides, always communicating.
How to play
- Sit back to back and take three slow breaths together.
- Face each other, legs in a V, hold hands and gently lean back and forth.
- Standing, hold your partner's shoulder for balance while stretching the front of the thigh.
- Side stretch holding hands, then switch sides.
Rules
- Talk to your partner and stop if anything hurts.
- Never pull or push hard.
Variations
Easier
Individual stretches next to a partner.
Standard
Guided partner stretches.
Harder
Hold each stretch longer.
Adaptations
- Students who prefer no contact: stretch individually.
- Limited mobility: seated stretches.
Learning goals
- Improve flexibility.
- Practice communication and respect.
PatioLab has "Guided Partner Stretching" and 599 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
More cool-downs for Elementary
4-7-8 Guided Breathing
Guided 4-7-8 breathing: breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 7 and breathe out for 8 to calm the group.
5-Senses Mindfulness
5-senses mindfulness: students notice 5 things they see, 4 they hear, 3 they can touch, 2 they smell and 1 they taste.
Back Drawing with Partner
In pairs, one student uses a finger to draw a shape, letter or number on a partner's back, and the partner has to guess it.
Balloon Belly Breathing
Balloon belly breathing: students imagine a balloon in their belly that fills when they breathe in and empties when they breathe out.
Balloon Stretching
Balloon stretching: a cool-down with balloons — gentle stretches while keeping the balloon in the air or holding it with different body parts.
Body Journal
Body journal: students note how their body feels after class (energy, tiredness, mood).