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Gym Blast Games

Mainly based in Ontario, Canada, Gym Blast is a teamwork and leadership development program for students in grades seven through 12. The program was created by the group Youth for Christ, but has no religious content. During a two-hour afternoon Gym Blast assembly, students are divided into teams who compete against each other. Whether physically demanding or strategy based, Gym Blast games offer both fun and skill development opportunities for students. The motto of the Gym Blast program is "play hard, play fair, play safe."

Potato Sack Relay
- Typically held on grass fields, potato sack relay races can be modified for use in a Gym Blast program. Students are divided into teams and then line up behind a pre-designated starting line. The first student in each team is given a large pillow case (replacing the traditionally used potato sack), which they each step into and then hold up. After receiving a signal from the game leader, they both hop towards a second point which is roughly 25 feet away from the starting area. After reaching the point, the two players turn around and hop back towards their teammates. The first participants then give the pillowcases to the next students in line and the race continues until every team member has participated. The first team to successfully complete the course wins.
Limbo
- Limbo is a classic beach game that can also be adapted in a variety of ways for Gym Blast. Instead of a traditional limbo stick, jump ropes, garland, or any other long item can be used. For another twist, limbo can be played in complete dark with a flashlight serving as the limbo stick. To begin limbo, game leaders hold each end of the limbo stick or substitute item. While music plays, students take turns walking under the stick without falling or touching the ground. The stick is slowly lowered with each round, making it increasingly difficult for the student to cross underneath. Students have the opportunity to compete both individually and gain points for their team depending upon how long they are able to successfully cross underneath the limbo stick.
Balloon Relay
- A balloon relay requires little set up. Each team simply lines up horizontally, and the first person in each line is given an inflated balloon. After receiving the starting signal from game leaders, the first participant passes the balloon overhead to the next player. The balloon is then alternately passed between the legs of team members and over their heads until it reaches the end of the line. The last person to receive the balloon must run with it to the beginning of the line to begin the process all over again. The game is completed once the original players are at the front of the line. Because it is a relatively slower pace and quiet game, balloon relay can be used to help wind down a Gym Blast event. After the game is finished, it is time to tally the team points for the day and announce a winner.

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