Dodge & Run Express

Learning Outcomes

Perform controlled dodging movements to avoid a moving object or tagger.

Improve agility, balance, and change-of-direction skills.

Demonstrate awareness of space and classmates.

Follow rules and show teamwork during game play.

Description Of Activity

Mark a rectangular play area using cones.

Choose 2 taggers who will stand in the middle of the area.

Other students line up on one side of the rectangle.

When the teacher says Express Go!, all runners try to run to the opposite side without being tagged.

Taggers can move sideways and forward/backward to try to tag runners, but must stay inside the boundary.

Runners must use dodging skills quick side steps, changes of direction, stopping-starting to avoid taggers.

If a runner is tagged, they join the taggers for the next round.

Continue until only 12 runners remain.

Reset and play again.

Variations

Safe Zones: Add two small safe circles where runners can rest for 3 seconds.

One-Hand Tag: Taggers can only tag using one hand (safer for young kids).

Animal Mode: Runners move like animals (rabbit hops, crab walks, etc.).

Tagger Rotation: Every 2 minutes, choose new taggers to keep everyone active.

Coaching Tips

Demonstrate side-step dodging before starting the game.

Teach students to keep eyes forward and not push each other.

Encourage small, quick steps while changing direction.

Keep boundaries clear and safe.

Give positive reinforcement for good dodging.

Equipment/Material Required

6–10 cones

Whistle (optional)