Parachute Fitness Circuit

The whole class does a set of strength and endurance exercises to music while holding the parachute: seated rows, squats with a lift, curl-ups with a pull, and running in a circle. Students build overall strength with equipment that forces them to work in sync with the group.

How to play

1. Arrange the class around the parachute with both hands on the edge and explain that each station lasts 45 seconds with 15 seconds of rest (1 min).
2. Rowing: sitting with legs straight, everyone pulls the edge to the chest and slowly returns, like rowing together (2 min).
3. Squat and lift: squat down with the parachute on the floor and stand up lifting it overhead together (2 min).
4. Pull-up curl-ups: lying on your back with feet toward the center, curl up pulling the edge and lower slowly (2 min).
5. Merry-go-round: one hand on the edge, jog in a circle; on the whistle, switch direction and hands (2 min).
6. Arm waves: standing, make quick alternating-arm waves for 30 seconds with 15 seconds of rest (2 min).
7. Repeat the whole circuit a second time, letting students vote on the order with a show of hands (7 min).

Rules

• Pull the parachute only toward yourself and smoothly, never with jerks.
• During curl-ups, keep your lower back on the floor and your chin off your chest.
• On the merry-go-round, always run the same direction as the group.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students who use wheelchairs: do the rows, waves, and lifts from the chair.
• Students who are deaf or hard of hearing: announce each station change with a large card showing the exercise.
• Students with lower fitness: choose the easier version of each station, such as a partial squat or a short curl-up.

Learning goals

• Build arm, leg, and core strength in a fun way.
• Keep working through short intervals with rest breaks.
• Match your pace to the group so the exercise works.

Equipment for a class of 25

• play parachute: 1
• music: 1

Teacher tip

Use music with a clear change every 45 seconds. During the rows, stress pulling together with no yanking backward.

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