Stability Ball Rodeo Balances

In pairs, one student sits on a stability ball and works through harder and harder balance challenges, from both feet down to a no-feet rodeo, while a partner spots from behind. The activity builds balance on an unstable base, posture and core strength.

How to play

1. Give each pair one stability ball on a mat, with 2 m (6 ft) between pairs; check that each seated student has knees level with hips (2 min).
2. Base position: sit in the center of the ball, back tall, feet apart and hands on knees; the partner kneels behind with hands near the waist, not touching (2 min).
3. Challenges 1 to 3, ten seconds each: arms out to the sides, lift one foot and then the other, and bounce gently without leaving the ball; switch roles after each challenge (4 min).
4. Challenges 4 and 5: lift one foot and the opposite arm at the same time, then twist the trunk side to side with the foot still raised (3 min).
5. Rodeo challenge: with arms out, lift both feet a few inches off the floor and count out loud how long you can hold it, with the partner ready to steady you (3 min).
6. Each pair remembers its best rodeo time and talks about which body part had to work hardest (2 min).

Rules

• A partner always spots from behind during one-foot and no-feet challenges.
• If you lose your balance, put your feet and hands on the floor; never jump off the ball.
• Nobody stands or kneels on the stability ball.
• Balls not in use are put away so they don't roll around the gym.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: do the arm and trunk challenges from the wheelchair, or on a ball against the wall with a partner on each side if the transfer is safe.
• Autism: show the challenges on a picture strip and let the student choose the order.
• Low skill level: keep one foot on the floor at all times and use a smaller ball.

Learning goals

• Maintain seated balance on an unstable surface.
• Engage the core muscles to control posture.
• Spot a partner attentively and responsibly.

Equipment for a class of 25

• stability balls: 13
• mats: 13

Teacher tip

Size the ball to the student: knees and hips at the same height. The usual mistake is slouching, so cue students to grow tall toward the ceiling.

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