Stretch Statues: Which Muscle Is It?

In groups, one student holds a static stretch like a statue and the others guess which muscle it stretches and copy it. It reviews the stretches from the strength session in a calm, inclusive way.

How to play

1. Groups of five in a circle. Recall the muscles worked today (1 min).
2. One member makes a stretch statue; the rest guess the muscle and copy it for 20 seconds (2 min).
3. Take turns until everyone has offered a statue (3 min).
4. Each group picks its favorite statue and teaches it to the class, who copy it (2 min).

Rules

• Gentle stretch, no pain or bouncing.
• Take turns guessing, without shouting.
• Don't repeat a statue the group already did.
• Breathe normally during the statue.

Variations

Adaptations

• Wheelchair users: upper-body and neck statues.
• Students with visual impairments: the partner describes the statue in words or allows touch to feel the position.
• Deaf or hard-of-hearing students: answers are given by pointing at their own body.

Learning goals

• Link each stretch to the muscle it targets.
• Cool down gradually.
• Take part while respecting turns.

Teacher tip

Keep a simple poster of the major muscles handy in case groups get stuck. The classic problem is extreme statues to show off: remind them the clearest statue wins, not the most extreme.

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