Simon Says on the Move
An active version of Simon Says where every command is a movement or warm-up exercise, and anyone who slips up stays in the game. It warms up the whole body and trains careful listening and self-control.
How to play
- Students spread out around the space. The teacher starts as Simon.
- Simon gives movement commands: Simon says jog on tiptoes, Simon says touch a wall and come back, Simon says do ten jumps.
- Students obey only if the command starts with Simon says. If not, they freeze like a statue.
- Anyone who moves without Simon says spins around once, does 2 squats, and keeps playing.
- For the first 3 minutes, commands are gentle; after that, add running, jumping, and changes of direction.
- In the last 3 minutes, three students take turns as Simon for 1 minute each.
Rules
- No one is out; a mistake is fixed with one spin and 2 squats.
- Commands must be safe and doable for the whole class.
- When moving, look ahead and give others space.
- Simon may not give the same command twice in a row.
Variations
Easier
Commands are done in place, with no traveling, and at a slower pace.
Standard
Traveling and exercise commands with a rising pace.
Harder
Give two linked commands, like Simon says jump and touch the floor.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: Simon includes arm and trunk commands, and a student using a wheelchair adapts the traveling moves in their own way.
- Hearing impairment: Simon models each move and gives a thumbs-up when the command starts with Simon says.
- Fitness level: a student who needs it power walks during running commands.
Learning goals
- Warm up major muscle groups with varied exercises.
- Control the urge to move when a command isn't valid.
- Give clear, safe commands to the whole class.
Teacher tip
Give student Simons a short list of commands so they don't freeze up. Alternate fast calls with pauses to catch students who aren't paying attention.
PatioLab has "Simon Says on the Move" and 1299 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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