Partner Reaction Square
In pairs, one student waits in the middle of a square of four colored disc cones while the partner calls out colors: the runner touches the called cone and gets back to the middle as fast as possible. It trains reaction, changes of direction, and stopping.
How to play
- Each pair sets up a 10 × 10 ft square with 4 flat disc cones of different colors at the corners and one in the middle. Space the squares at least 6 ft apart.
- First, warm up for 2 minutes: each student travels around their square jogging, side shuffling, and backpedaling, touching each cone.
- One student stands on the middle cone with knees slightly bent. The partner stands outside the square and calls out colors.
- The runner touches the called cone with a hand and returns to the middle; as soon as they step on the middle, the partner calls another color.
- Each turn lasts 20 seconds, then partners switch roles. Do 4 turns per student, a little faster each time.
Rules
- Step back on the middle cone before going to the next color.
- Touch the cone with your hand by bending your knees, not just your back.
- The caller waits until the partner reaches the middle before calling the next color.
- Each pair stays inside its own square to avoid collisions.
Variations
Easier
The caller points to the cone as well as saying the color.
Standard
Colors called out loud, 20-second turns, and a required return to the middle.
Harder
The caller points to the opposite side of the correct cone, or calls two colors in a row.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the square for a student using a wheelchair is larger, and the discs are replaced with tall cones they can touch without bending.
- Color blindness or visual impairment: use numbers or shapes instead of colors, or cones of different sizes.
- Fitness level: a student who needs it does 15-second turns or uses a smaller square.
Learning goals
- React to verbal cues with quick starts in several directions.
- Stop and change direction with control.
- Help a partner by giving clear, fair signals.
Equipment for a class of 25
- flat disc cones: 65
Teacher tip
Squares placed too close together cause collisions: set them up before the class arrives. Ask callers to vary their timing so runners can't guess the next color.
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