Squat Detectives: Five Checkpoints in Threes

In groups of three, one student squats, one observes with a five-point sheet and the third gives a cue to fix it. Students learn squat technique by watching, doing and explaining.

How to play

1. The teacher demonstrates the five points: feet shoulder-width, knees following the toes, heels down, flat back and controlled descent (3 min).
2. Round one: the lifter does 8 slow box squats to a bench; the detective marks the sheet and the coach gives one correction (5 min).
3. Rotate roles within the group (5 min).
4. Rotate again so everyone has played all three roles (5 min).
5. Class share: which point failed most and which cue worked best (2 min).

Rules

• One correction per set, said positively: "push the floor away with your heels."
• Place the bench against the wall so it can't slide.
• No one comments on anyone's body, only on the movement.
• Rest between sets even if you feel like going on.

Variations

Adaptations

• Students with visual impairments: with permission, the observer gives touch cues at the knees and back.
• Students with a knee injury: act only as detective and coach that day.
• Students with reading difficulties: a sheet with drawings of each point and boxes to check.

Learning goals

• Know the key points of a safe squat.
• Observe a partner and give technical cues.
• Improve control of the descent.

Equipment for a class of 25

• observation sheets: 10
• pencils: 10
• gym benches: 4

Teacher tip

One sheet per group is enough; laminate it and use dry-erase markers to reuse it. Without gym benches, use sturdy chairs against the wall. The classic mistake is heels lifting on the way down: ask students to feel their weight mid-foot.

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