Trail Obstacles: Log, Low Branch, and Rock Field

A course that recreates typical trail obstacles: a fallen log, a low branch, a rock field, and a soft patch. Students practice safe technique, first with no load and then with a light pack and as a group.

How to play

1. Set up the course and demo: cross the log by sitting or with three points of contact, duck with eyes ahead, short steps through the rocks (4 min).
2. Solo run without a pack, with a partner watching your technique and giving one tip (6 min).
3. Run with a light, fitted pack: notice how balance changes on the log and under the branch (6 min).
4. Groups of four: cross the whole course at the slowest person's pace and give each other a hand at the log (6 min).
5. Take down the course station by station (3 min).

Rules

• Never jump down from the log; step down with support.
• One person per obstacle; the next waits until it's clear.
• Look where you put your feet, not at your classmates.
• Only a jacket and a bottle in the pack.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a parallel alternate route with a ramp or side pass, plus the role of technique judge.
• Low vision: a partner describes each obstacle ahead of time, with bright cones.
• Students afraid of height: bench at floor level and sitting to cross is always allowed.

Learning goals

• Get past natural obstacles with safe technique.
• Adjust balance to a load on the back.
• Help each other as a group without rushing.

Equipment for a class of 25

• gym benches: 4
• wooden poles: 8
• cones: 24
• mats: 4
• backpacks: 8

Teacher tip

Build the low branch from a pole resting on two tall cones so it falls if touched. Common mistake: jumping off the log; on a real trail there may be a loose rock on the other side.

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