Physical Activity Pyramid Relay
Teams build a physical activity pyramid on the ground by placing cards in relays, and every card requires acting out the activity for a few seconds. Then they design a week that meets the recommended 60 minutes a day.
How to play
- Each team of 5 draws a four-level chalk pyramid: base 'every day' (walking, stairs, biking), '3-5 days' (running, swimming, sports), '2-3 days' (strength and flexibility), and top 'limit' (screens, long periods sitting).
- Fifteen yards from each pyramid is a cone with 16 activity cards face down.
- On the signal, a runner takes a card, acts out the activity for 15 seconds by the cone (for example, swimming or jumping rope), runs back, and places it on the level they think is right.
- Play until the cards run out (about 8 min). The teacher checks the pyramids and gives one point per card placed correctly.
- Design (6 min): each team uses chalk to plan a week with at least 60 minutes of activity a day, including strength on at least three days.
- Wrap-up (3 min): a spokesperson explains the week and the class suggests one improvement.
Rules
- Act out the activity for the full 15 seconds before returning.
- Stay in your lane and respect other teams' pyramids.
- Only your own team may move cards on your pyramid.
Variations
Easier
Use a three-level pyramid: every day, several times a week, and limit.
Standard
Four-level pyramid and a week with 60 minutes a day.
Harder
Each team adds cards with activities they really do and checks whether they meet the guideline.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: act out activities with the arms or trunk and place cards with a pole.
- Hearing impairment: use a visual start signal, such as a raised pinnie.
- Lower fitness: shorten the distance to 8 yards.
Learning goals
- Know the physical activity guidelines for teens.
- Sort activities by recommended frequency.
- Plan a realistic active week.
Equipment for a class of 25
- task cards: 80
- chalk: 10
- cones: 5
Teacher tip
Make the week real: include class schedules, after-school activities, and travel. Students discover that walking to school already adds minutes.
PatioLab has "Physical Activity Pyramid Relay" and 2499 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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