Parachute Run Around

The group lifts the parachute and, while it floats, the students whose number is called let go, run one full lap around the outside of the circle, and get back to their spot before it comes down. Students work on reaction speed, running on a curve, and teamwork to keep the parachute up.

How to play

1. Arrange the class around the parachute and number off from 1 to 4 in order (1 min).
2. Practice the lift: on three, everyone raises the parachute overhead and lets it float down slowly (2 min).
3. During a lift, the teacher calls a number: those students let go, run clockwise around the outside of the circle, and return to their spot (4 min).
4. If everyone makes it back before the parachute touches the ground, the class earns a point; if not, repeat with the same number (2 min).
5. Change the locomotor skill each round: running, side-sliding, two-foot hops, or holding hands with a partner (4 min).
6. Finish with two numbers at once running in opposite directions, always passing on the right (2 min).

Rules

• Always run around the outside of the circle, never under the parachute.
• When passing another runner, each person keeps to their right.
• Holders never drop the parachute on purpose to make someone miss.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students who use wheelchairs: cover half the circle or a cone path inside the space; the group lifts the parachute twice to give more time.
• Students who are deaf or hard of hearing: the teacher also shows numbers with raised fingers.
• Students with lower fitness: may go with a partner and choose to run or walk fast.

Learning goals

• React to a signal and accelerate while running on a curve.
• Coordinate the lift to give classmates enough time.
• Follow the traffic rule to avoid collisions.

Equipment for a class of 25

• play parachute: 1

Teacher tip

Clear the area around the circle. If the group brings the parachute down too fast, first do a slow lift while counting to five.

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