Long Jump with a Clapping Caller

Long jump the way blind athletes do it: blindfolded, the jumper runs toward a caller's claps and takes off from a wide zone. Students work on a straight approach, takeoff without visual cues and trust.

How to play

1. Set up 3 areas: a 26-ft runway, a 3-ft takeoff zone in chalk and 2 thick mats pushed together for landing. Groups of 8: jumper, caller, measurer and the rest waiting behind the cones (3 min).
2. Without a blindfold, each jumper marks a 5-step approach and takes 2 jumps to lock in the count (5 min).
3. The caller stands beside the takeoff zone, out of the path, clapping a rhythm and shouting “jump!” The jumper puts on the blindfold at the mark and runs toward the voice (2 min).
4. Each jumper takes 3 blindfolded jumps, measured from the actual takeoff point as in the totally blind class. Rotate roles after each jump (9 min).
5. Final jump: the caller uses only voice or only claps, and the group discusses which works better (3 min).

Rules

• Blindfolded approaches are 5 steps max at a controlled speed.
• The caller never stands in front or on the mat, always beside the takeoff zone.
• Nobody crosses the runway while someone is blindfolded; spectators wait behind the cones.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student acts as caller and judge, aiming to bring the jumper into the zone.
• Deaf or hard of hearing: jump without a blindfold and measure or clap following the teacher's hand.
• Fear: start with eyes closed, free to open them, or do standing jumps.

Learning goals

• Keep a straight, rhythmic approach guided by sound.
• Time the takeoff without visual cues.
• Learn how blind long jumpers compete.

Equipment for a class of 25

• blindfolds: 3
• mats: 6
• cones: 12
• measuring tape: 3
• chalk: 3

Teacher tip

The landing must be soft and wide, so fasten the mats together. Ask for a relaxed approach and reward a straight line, not distance.

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