Partner Acrosport
Pairs build simple balance figures such as counterbalances and low supports on mats, learning the safety rules of partner acrobatics. Students develop balance, body control, strength and trust in a partner.
How to play
- Set out mats, form pairs of similar size and explain the key rules: the base has a strong, stable position and weight goes on hips and shoulders, never on the lower back (3 min).
- Counterbalances: partners hold hands or wrists, toes close together, and lean back slowly until balanced; hold 5 seconds (4 min).
- Low figures: one partner is the base on hands and knees and the top places hands and knees on the base's shoulders and hips (5 min).
- Switch roles and try 2–3 figures from a picture card, holding each for 3–5 seconds (4 min).
- Each pair links 3 figures into a short sequence with a start and finish pose (3 min).
- A few pairs show their sequence while the rest give one positive comment (1 min).
Rules
- All figures are built on mats.
- Build and dismount slowly and announce 'up' and 'down' to your partner.
- Weight goes only on shoulders and hips, never on the middle of the back.
- Stop immediately if anything hurts or feels unstable.
Variations
Easier
Practice only counterbalances and mirror poses with no weight on a partner.
Standard
Build low figures with a base on hands and knees and a top in a balanced pose.
Harder
Create a sequence with smooth transitions performed to music.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: use seated counterbalances, act as base in a seated pose, or take the role of choreographer and photographer.
- Contact-sensitive or shy students: let them choose their partner and start with mirror poses that require little contact.
- Strength level: lighter students start as tops and stronger ones as bases, then rotate when ready.
Learning goals
- Hold static balances with a partner using safe technique.
- Build trust and communication with a partner.
- Create a short sequence of balance figures.
Equipment for a class of 25
- mats: 13
Teacher tip
Post picture cards of the allowed figures and check each pair's first attempt. Students should remove shoes on mats if your school allows it, for better grip.
PatioLab has "Partner Acrosport" and 599 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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