Static or Dynamic: Choose for the Moment

Groups analyze real cases and decide whether a static stretch, a dynamic one or a mix fits best, then demonstrate the chosen routine in practice. Decisions are checked against current evidence.

How to play

1. Each group of five gets eight case cards: before a 100 m sprint, after a soccer game, improving the splits in three months, a gymnast before competing, a basketball player on the bench, the morning of an exam after hours of sitting, between sets of jumps, and a return to play after injury with medical clearance (3 min).
2. Sort the cards on a three-column board (dynamic, static, mix) and write a one-line reason for each (6 min).
3. The teacher assigns each group one case, and the group designs and leads a 2-minute routine for the class in the cone lanes or on the mats (8 min).
4. Debrief with the evidence: long static stretching (over 60 s per muscle) right before power efforts may cut performance a little, short holds inside a dynamic warm-up barely matter, and static stretching is useful for gaining range over the long term (5 min).
5. Each group reviews its board and moves any misplaced cards, explaining why (3 min).

Rules

• In the cone lanes, everyone travels in one direction to avoid collisions.
• Dynamic movements build range gradually, with no jerky swings.
• Every opinion is backed with reasons, without putting other groups down.
• The group leading its routine checks that everyone is doing it pain-free.

Variations

Adaptations

• Hearing impairment: cards include pictograms and the evidence summary is projected in writing.
• Limited mobility: helps design and leads the routine, adapting exercises to the upper body.
• Autism: gets a steady role in the group, such as board secretary.

Learning goals

• Tell apart the effects of static and dynamic stretching.
• Make reasoned decisions about stretching type based on context.
• Lead a short mobility routine for a group.

Equipment for a class of 25

• worksheets: 48
• cones: 12
• exercise mats: 15

Teacher tip

Avoid turning it into static bad, dynamic good: the message is that it depends on the goal and the timing. Have the evidence summary table ready.

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