Keep Right and Call It: Two-Way Riding
A bike warm-up that drills the basic rule of riding on the right and passing on the left with a call. Heart rate climbs gradually while the rule becomes automatic.
PhaseWarm-up
Duration10 min
Ages12–14
SpaceOutdoor yard
EquipmentBikes, Helmets, cones, Chalk
IntensityModerate
How to play
- Chalk an oval with a dashed center line; half the class rides while the other half waits at the corner cones (1 min).
- Everyone rides the same direction in the right lane at an easy pace (2 min).
- Two-way: half the riders switch direction and everyone stays to their right when passing (2 min).
- Passing: only on the left, saying 'on your left' and moving back right once there is room (2 min).
- Groups switch and repeat a short version (3 min).
Rules
- Never cross the center line except to pass with a call.
- If you stop, pull out of the lane to the outside edge.
- Keep at least one bike length behind the rider ahead.
- Helmet buckled the whole time.
Variations
Easier
One direction only and no passing.
Standard
Two-way traffic with called passes.
Harder
Add a 'road work' cone that narrows one lane and forces riders to yield.
Adaptations
- Deaf or hard-of-hearing students: the passing call is a bell ring plus a visible hand signal.
- Unsure riders: use the outer lane with less traffic and do not pass.
- Students without a bike: walk as a 'traffic officer' at a corner and spot who crosses the line.
Learning goals
- Ride on the right automatically.
- Pass on the correct side with a call.
- Warm up through progressive pedaling.
Equipment for a class of 25
- bicycles: 15
- helmets: 30
- cones: 16
- chalk: 4
Teacher tip
With more than 15 bikes at once the oval jams; run two rounds instead. Students bring bikes with a signed permission slip, or borrow them from the city or local police; if you are short, pairs take turns.
Add this activity to your lesson
PatioLab has "Keep Right and Call It: Two-Way Riding" and 8714 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
More activities like this
More warm-ups for Middle School
2v2 Plus One Keep-Away Grids
getting open High intensity
30-Second Partner Passing Record
passing Moderate intensity
4v1 Warm-up Rondo
Coordination Moderate intensity
5-10-5 Pro Agility Reaction Duel
Agility High intensity
5-4-3-2-1 Shake-Out
Activation Moderate intensity
5v2 Technical Warm-up Rondo
Coordination Moderate intensity