Rope Sweep Jump
In circles of eight, one student in the middle swings a long rope along the floor and everyone else jumps as it passes under their feet. It warms up legs and ankles gradually and trains timing and the rhythm of the jump.
How to play
- Form 3 circles of 8 students, each about 10 ft in radius. In the middle of each circle, one student holds a long rope folded in half.
- First, do 1 minute of easy jumps in place, feet together and then alternating, all at once.
- The student in the middle turns in place, sweeping the rope slowly along the floor, and each student jumps when the rope reaches their feet.
- If the rope touches you, no problem: keep jumping and count one touch. After 3 touches, swap places with the student in the middle.
- The middle also changes every 45 seconds, even if no one reaches 3 touches. Speed up a little at a time for 6 minutes.
Rules
- The rope always stays on the floor, never above ankle height.
- The student swinging the rope stays crouched and keeps the speed controlled.
- Jump in your spot; don't step into the middle of the circle.
- Land on the balls of your feet with knees bent.
Variations
Easier
Swing the rope very slowly and call Now! just before it reaches each student.
Standard
Gradually faster speed, with the middle switching every 45 seconds or after 3 touches.
Harder
Jump on one foot, or change the direction of the swing without warning.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: a student using a wheelchair can swing the rope, or clear it by raising their arms as it passes.
- Visual impairment: tie a bell to the end of the rope so the student can hear it coming.
- Fitness level: a student who needs less impact can step over the rope.
Learning goals
- Anticipate the rope to jump on time.
- Warm up the leg muscles with repeated jumps.
- Accept mistakes and keep participating.
Equipment for a class of 25
- long rope: 3
Teacher tip
Demonstrate how to swing the rope yourself: crouched and skimming the floor. Tie a big knot in the end to add weight so it stays down.
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