A gym teacher often ends up with a short period of time to fill that doesn't allow for a full game with lengthy directions. Simple games that don't require lots of equipment keep the kids active and maximize the amount of play time. The gym games also work well for classroom teachers who want to give the kids a break to burn off energy.
Skills Relays
A relay requires only an open gym area and a ball. Add a specific skill from a sport the kids are learning, such as dribbling a basketball or soccer ball. Divide the kids into teams, giving each team a ball. One player from each team runs the length of the gym and back while performing the selected skill. Have the players follow a straight path or weave around cones while handling the ball. The next player on each team takes a turn at the relay.
Beanbag Scramble
Hula-Hoops and beanbags make up the equipment list for this easy gym game. Set up one Hula-Hoop in each corner of the gym with five to 10 beanbags inside each one. Divide the players equally between the four hoops. One player from each team runs to another team's Hula-Hoop and grabs a beanbag. She returns to her own team's hoop and places the beanbag there. The next person then runs out and grabs another beanbag. The goal is to end the game with the most beanbags in your team's hoop.
Beach Ball Bounce
Beach balls work well for this game because of the lightweight nature that allows them to stay in the air longer. The students stand around the gym, leaving enough space so they don't bump into each other. Toss three or four inflated beach balls high into the air. The kids keep the beach balls in the air by hitting them back up with their hands. Remind the players to watch for one another so they don't collide when going for a ball.
Tag
Most tag games don't require any equipment, making them quick to play at any time. Different versions exist to allow for variety. In bandage tag, players hold a hand over the spot where they are tagged. On the third tag, a player stands still since he is out of hands. Two teammates much touch him to allow him to move again. Freeze tag is similar, with players standing still when they are tagged. A touch from a teammate unfreezes the player. For variety, play the game so that only the body part that is tagged is frozen. For example, if the player's arm is tagged, he can't move the arm but he can still run.
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