Leg Hurdle Relay

A traditional relay where the team sits in a line with legs stretched out and each student jumps over teammates' ankles to sit down at the end, so the team moves toward the finish. It builds low hurdling, running rhythm, and teamwork.

How to play

1. Make 5 teams of 5. Each team sits in a line, one behind another about 5 feet apart, all facing the same side with legs straight and together, forming "hurdles" across the lane. Mark a start and a finish about 60 feet away with cones (2 min).
2. The first student stands, jumps each teammate's ankles with a running stride, and sits 5 feet past the last teammate with legs stretched out (2 min).
3. Once seated, they say "Go!" and the student now at the front takes off, so the team moves toward the finish. Do a slow practice round (2 min).
4. Race: the first team with every member past the finish wins. Two heats (4 min).
5. Final round: jump the ankles with two feet together instead of a running stride (2 min).

Rules

• Always jump over the ankles, the lowest part, never over the knees.
• Seated students keep legs still and hands on their thighs.
• Don't leave until you hear "Go!", and keep 10 feet between teams.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: join the line as a "post" to zigzag around, or replace your hurdle with a cone on its side.
• Students with autism: start as a seated hurdle, watching, before jumping.
• Fitness level: students who struggle step over with a long stride; strong jumpers hop on one foot.

Learning goals

• Clear low hurdles without breaking running rhythm.
• Control landings so they don't step on teammates.
• Work as a team, taking turns and keeping everyone safe.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cones: 10

Teacher tip

Before starting, have everyone check where their feet land: most stepped-on toes come from jumping too close to the seated student's body. It's great for small spaces since it needs almost no equipment.

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