Physical Literacy | Running Long Jump

TIME: 15 Minutes

AGES: 4 – 12

Requirements

  • Open outdoor space with flat grass or sand surface
  • Markers (rope, ribbon, string, leaves, twigs)

Instructions

  1. Find a flat, open outdoor space with grass or sand surface
  2. Mark a “jump” line on the ground (piece or rope or ribbon, or draw line in sand)
  3. Show your child how to do a running long jump: run up to the line and take off with one foot
  4. Mark your landing spot with a leaf, a twig, or a piece of ribbon
  5. Have your child try to beat your jump!
  6. Mark each jump
  7. Don’t be afraid to let your child beat you – coach for success!
    TIP: Show how to jump high to get extra distance
    TIP: Show how to land with feet shoulder-width apart, and knees aligned above feet

Variations

  • If your child always takes off with the same foot, try the other foot for a while
  • Introduce extra fun with imaginary scenarios – for example, pretend to be Spiderman leaping between buildings

Benefits

This activity develops dynamic balance, coordination, timing, and strength required for any and all sports and activities that involve a running jump (e.g., basketball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, track and field, gymnastics)