Triple Jump Through Hoops: The Three-Contact Rhythm

Students learn the triple jump with hoops on the ground marking each contact: hop, step and jump. Hoops move farther apart as the rhythm becomes automatic.

How to play

1. Each group sets up a lane: three hoops in a row and mats at the end; remind 'same, same, other' (3 min).
2. Walk, then jog through the hoops with the right sequence, no landing on the mat yet (5 min).
3. With a four-step run, full triple jump through the hoops and a two-foot landing on the mat (7 min).
4. Each student may move their hoops one foot farther after three good ones in a row (6 min).
5. Final round: two attempts with personalized hoop spacing; the partner checks the sequence (4 min).

Rules

• Step inside the hoops, not on the rim, to avoid slipping.
• One person per lane; go on the spotter's signal.
• Only the final landing is on two feet.
• Mats pushed together with no gaps.

Variations

Adaptations

• Visual impairment: rubber spots they can feel instead of hoops, with a verbal 'one, two, three'.
• Limited mobility: walks the sequence or claps the rhythm for others.
• Lower strength: short jumps, focusing on rhythm over distance.

Learning goals

• Make the triple jump contact sequence automatic.
• Keep the rhythm as hoops get farther apart.
• Choose your own level of challenge.

Equipment for a class of 25

• hula hoops: 18
• mats: 6
• cones: 6

Teacher tip

Plastic hoops slide on smooth floors; indoors, use tape marks instead. Common mistake: a huge first hop that makes the next two impossible.

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