Look out for others

Setup

Objective

Players run in random directions in a defined area. Players are made aware of the fact that the activity is focused on learning to play safely in the presence of others.

Area

Functions

Players move around, mindful of other players, the boundaries and the surface (e.g. if playing outdoors, are there any holes in the ground?)
Change the movement skill (e.g. run, walk, hop, skip, gallop).
How many ways can you…? – every movement skill has its variations. For running, vary the speed, length of stride, noise made by feet, body low or high, funny variations, on the spot, height of knees, height of feet at the back, direction, arm position, clap in various positions.
Run and balance – players run randomly as above. The coach calls ‘freeze!’ and the players have to balance – either one of their own choice or a nominated balance (e.g. balance on 1 to 4 body parts). Alter how long students hold the balances for (e.g. 5-20 seconds).
Run and groups – the coach calls a number (e.g. ‘5!’) and players quickly form groups of 5. A fun variation is to call a number and body part (e.g. ‘5 hands!’. Players come together with 5 hands touching). Use the final number called for the next activity – this assists in a quick transition.

Safety

Start simply – add new challenges over time.
Only add variations when players demonstrate effective space and other player awareness.