Students must have prior experience striking with implements (lollipop paddles) and be familiar with the fitness activities that are written on balloons (see description). 3-5 Balloons; (probably 3-4 per student); striking implements (for example; lollipop paddles); two goals; poster with activity directions written on it (see below); Description of Idea

In advance, prepare a poster with the directions for "Balloon Fitness" written on it. Write a fitness activity on each balloon (10 sit-ups, 5 push-ups, etc.). Scatter them around the space. Place striking implements where students can pick them up as they enter.

Example of directions for students to be written on poster are as follows:

-When you enter the gym, pick up a lollipop paddle and walk to a balloon.
-Place your paddle on the ground and read what is written on your balloon---complete the activity.
-After completing the activity, use your paddle to strike the balloon while travelling to one of the 2 goals.
-Walk to another balloon and read the activity---complete the activity and strike your balloon into a goal.
-Count how many balloons you can strike into the goals before the time is up.

Teaching Suggestions:

-place poster at entrance, so students can begin activity immediately

-allow students to use their hands, adapt activites based on individual student ability


Variations:

-require students to use specified locomotor skills while retrieving balloons, use backhand and forehand

Assessment Ideas:

-teacher can informally assess striking abilities Richard Riley in Clarksburg, MD. Posted on PEC: 9/13/2003.

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