Small group: Pairs sweep

Associated sport: Rowing
Indoor-friendly: No
Pool-friendly: Yes

Game description

Pairs race other teams in a simulated coxless pair race using 1 'oar' each.

What you need (setting up)

  • A pool or safe shallow open water.
  • 2 x foam pool noodles per pair or 1 x kick board per person.
  • 1 x personal flotation device (life jacket) per person.

What to do

  • In shallow water pairs sit on pool noodles and face in the opposite direction to where they want to go.
  • On ‘GO!’ using one arm each as oars, the players works together to row across a pool – front rower uses right arm while back rower uses their left arm.
  • Begin by reaching backwards into the water and then pulling forward (keeping the arms straight) through the water to make the boat move.
  • Players swap positions to paddle back when they reach the side of the pool.

Rowing - Pairs sweep

Scoring

  • First team to reach the other side of the pool is the winner.

Change it

  • Add items in the water to paddle around.
  • Time the activity and teams try to beat their own scores.
  • Try paddling forwards and backwards.

Safety

  • Perform activities in enough water and away from the edges to avoid colliding with the bottom or sides of the pool.
  • Ensure supervision is provided.

Ask the players

  • How do you steer a racing boat left or right?

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