Warm-Up Swap: Write It, Trade It, Lead It

Each group writes a six-exercise warm-up on a card, trades it with another group, and does the one it receives using only the written instructions; then it gives feedback to the authors. Students practice clear communication and warm-up structure.

How to play

1. Make five groups of five. In 3 minutes, each group writes a six-exercise warm-up in order on a card, noting reps or time and adding a simple sketch if needed.
2. Cards pass to the group on the right. Nobody may ask the authors questions: the receiving group has to figure it out by reading.
3. Each group does the warm-up it received (5 min), taking turns reading each exercise out loud and leading it.
4. Meanwhile, one member notes on the back which exercise was unclear and which worked best.
5. Feedback (2 min): each group returns the card and takes 30 seconds to say whether the warm-up built from easy to hard and whether it was clear.

Rules

• The receiving group does exactly what the card says, unless it's unsafe.
• Feedback is respectful and includes one suggestion for improvement.
• Safety: if an exercise looks dangerous or confusing, check with the teacher before doing it.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the group includes a seated option for each exercise, and the student can be the reader and leader.
• Dyslexia or reading difficulties: drawings or picture symbols may replace text.
• Lower fitness: the student may choose the easiest version of each exercise.

Learning goals

• Write a clear warm-up organized by phases.
• Interpret written instructions and put them into practice as a group.
• Give and receive constructive feedback.

Equipment for a class of 25

• cards: 5
• markers: 5

Teacher tip

Circulate while groups write to prevent unreadable cards. Keep the best cards to build a class warm-up file.

More activities like this

More warm-ups for High School