Mass Start Loop Orienteering
The whole class starts together and runs three short loops that branch out from a central control, but each student runs them in a different order shown on their map. Students practice navigating under pressure, focus and endurance without being able to follow anyone.
How to play
- Place one central control and three loops (A, B and C) of 3 controls each around it. Make maps with three possible orders: ABC, BCA and CAB.
- Hand out the maps face down so nobody knows their neighbor's order. Explain that runners always come back through the central control between loops.
- On the signal, the whole class starts at once. Each student writes the code of every control they find on their map.
- After finishing all three loops, runners return to the finish, where the teacher calls out the time on the stopwatch and students write it on their maps. The race lasts about 10 minutes.
- Take a 3-minute active break so students can compare routes with someone who had the same order.
- Run the race again with a different loop order and try to beat your time with no code errors.
Rules
- Everyone runs their own order; following someone else does not work because routes differ.
- A missing or wrong code adds 2 minutes to the final time.
- Slow down at the central control to avoid collisions.
- The time limit is 15 minutes; on a long whistle, everyone heads back to the finish.
Variations
Easier
Use two loops of 2 controls visible from the central control.
Standard
Use three loops of 3 controls each.
Harder
Add a fourth loop and controls with very similar codes so runners must double-check.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: put loops on firm ground and use a map with only two loops.
- Shyness or anxiety: let the student start 30 seconds after the group to avoid the pressure of the mass start.
- Lower fitness: score only accuracy, not time.
Learning goals
- Navigate independently without relying on other runners.
- Keep focus on map reading at a high pace.
- Compare route choices and find ways to improve.
Equipment for a class of 25
- maps: 50
- control flags: 10
- stopwatch: 1
Teacher tip
A mass start is very motivating but needs well-separated loops to avoid crowding. Mark the central control on the map with a large triangle so it is recognized instantly.
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