Load the Train Beanbag Toss

A cooperative throwing game where each team must load a train of hoops set in a line at increasing distances, landing one beanbag in each car in order. Students practice the overhand throw, matching force to distance, and supporting teammates.

How to play

1. Form 4 teams of 6 and set 5 hoops in a straight line in front of each team at 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 m from the throwing line: these are the train cars (2 min).
2. Quick demo: stand sideways, opposite foot forward, and bring the arm through from behind the head (1 min).
3. Each team has 10 beanbags; students take turns throwing one at a time, trying to land a beanbag in the first car; once they do, they move on to the next car (4 min).
4. When all 5 cars are loaded, the team shouts "Train loaded!", earns 3 points, and starts a new train; when they run out of beanbags, two retrievers walk out to collect them while the rest wait (5 min).
5. Final round with an engine: add a sixth hoop at 8 m worth 2 bonus points (2 min).
6. Count each team's completed trains and put the equipment away (1 min).

Rules

• Throw only from behind the cone line.
• Nobody enters the hoop area until the team has thrown every beanbag.
• A beanbag touching the rim but resting inside counts; if it ends up outside, throw again.
• The turn passes to the next teammate after every throw, hit or miss.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students with limited mobility: throw from a closer line of their own or while seated; their hits count for the team like everyone else's.
• Students with visual impairments: a partner places a noise-making object in the target car and tells them if the beanbag lands short or long.
• Fitness or skill level: a student who hits on the first try may skip a car; a student who misses often may retake the throw.

Learning goals

• Throw overhand with the opposite foot forward.
• Adjust throwing force for increasing distances.
• Encourage and help teammates.

Equipment for a class of 25

• beanbags: 40
• hoops: 24
• cones: 8

Teacher tip

At this age many students step with the same-side foot; chalk a footprint for the front foot. Cloth beanbags with light filling keep them from bouncing out of the hoop.

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