Parkour Chase Tag over Low Obstacles

A team chase game in a 33-by-33-foot square with low obstacles: in each 20-second round, one chaser tries to tag an evader who uses vaults, turns, and changes of direction. Students work on agility, decision-making, and fair play.

How to play

1. Set up 3 squares of 33 by 33 feet with cones, each with two benches and two stacked mats inside. Two teams of 4 in different pinnies play in each square (3 min).
2. Each round lasts 20 seconds: one chaser from one team and one evader from the other start in opposite corners on the whistle.
3. If the chaser tags the evader on the shoulder or back, the chaser's team scores; if the evader lasts 20 seconds, the evader's team scores.
4. The evader becomes the chaser in the next round and the other team sends a new evader, so everyone plays often (12 min).
5. At the end, teams rotate squares to face new opponents and play a final round (5 min).

Rules

• Tag only with an open hand on the shoulder or back; no pushing or grabbing.
• Clear obstacles using your hands or feet for support, never jumping over without support.
• No standing on top of the benches.
• Stepping out of the square loses the round.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student runs the clock and score, or plays in a square with no obstacles using adapted movement.
• Hearing impairment: start and end each round by raising and lowering a pinnie.
• Fitness level: each team picks its order to keep the matchups balanced.

Learning goals

• Make quick decisions to escape or catch an opponent.
• Use parkour skills in a game situation.
• Follow contact and safety rules.

Equipment for a class of 25

• gym benches: 6
• mats: 12
• cones: 12
• pinnies: 12

Teacher tip

Short rounds keep the intensity high with built-in rest; encourage teammates to coach the next player up. Check that the benches do not slide.

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