lesson plans for physical education for elementary

The World's Most Evidence-Based Physical Education & Physical Activity Programs!

Free Lesson Plans

Spark sample lesson plans, the following pages include a collection of free spark physical education and physical activity lesson plans. if you’re searching for lesson plans based on inclusive, fun pe-pa games or innovative new ideas, click on one of the links below..

Snakes and Lizards Lesson Plan

Field Day Activity

Centipede Pass

Manipulatives Lesson

Partner Hoop Rolling

Parachute Switcheroo Lesson Plan

Catching and Throwing

Catching and Throwing Circuit Lesson Plan

Skill Cards

Skill Cards (Spanish)

Back to School

Back to School (Spanish)

Social and Emotional Learning

Kindness Definition Card and Lesson

Fitness Circuits

Body Composition Circuit Lesson Plan

Mirror, Mirror Lesson Plan

Performance Rubric Assessment

Choice Count (Pedometer Activity)

Cross the Pond

3-Catch Basketball Lesson Plan

SEL Definition and T-Chart Card

Flying Disc

Durango Boot

Zone and Player-to-Player Defenses

Radio Control

Mini Soccer

Soccer Student Self-Assessments

Track and Field

Sprints and Jumps Circuit

Skill Cards (English & Spanish)

Task Cards (Spanish)

Cooperatives

Spartan Adventure Race 201

Spartan Adventure Race 101

Group Fitness

Yoga Basic Training Lesson Plan

Yoga Content Cards

Yoga Content Cards (Spanish)

Basic Training Peer Checklist

Basic Training Peer Checklist (Spanish)

SFI Certification Tracking Sheet

iGames Lesson

iStrike/Field

Boulder Runner

I Got Your Back Lesson Plan

Practice Plan

Practice Plan (Spanish)

Fitness Fun

Fun and Fitness Circuit Lesson Plan

Fitness Station Cards

Fitness Station Cards (Spanish)

Fun Station Cards

Fun Station Cards (Spanish)

Great Games

Balanced Breakfast

Flying Disc Group Challenge Lesson Plan

Task Card (Spanish)

Building Blocks

Starting and Stopping Lesson Plan

Family Fun Activities

Family Fun Activities (Spanish)

Beanbag Bonanza

Station Play Lesson Plan

Station Cards

Have a Ball

Bounce and Catch

Recess Activities

Social studies.

Social Studies Fitness Relay

State Lists

State Lists (Spanish)

Fitness Relay State Cards

STEM Fitness Training

STEM Fitness Training Cards (English & Spanish)

Me Activities

ME: INSIDE (K-2)

ME: OUTSIDE (3-5)

We Activities

WE: INSIDE (3-5)

WE: OUTSIDE (K-2)

3 Activities

3: INSIDE (3-5)

3: OUTSIDE (K-2)

Sample Resources

Group Juggling

Object Control Skills-Underhand Throwing

What Your PE Student with Autism Spectrum Disorder Wishes You Knew

Football Unit Inclusion Strategies 3-6

SPARK Holiday Lesson

Hearty Hoopla

Stop the Grinch!

Zombie Graveyard

Build a Turkey

Let's Be Friends

Stay connected to hear about new upcoming events!

JUNE 2023: SPARK is celebrating 34 years - Evidence. Innovation. Impact. Thanks to all past, present, & future SPARK customers, partners, & funders for positively impacting so many students, youth and children worldwide! #physed #afterschool #ECE #activeclassroom #earlychilhdood pic.twitter.com/8lnL2SFe54

📣 Starts in 1 hour! (5pmPT/8pmET) SPARK June Webinar: Units to Invigorate Your PE Program - New SPARK K-12 Activities bit.ly/3TrwoLH #physed pic.twitter.com/H8szuGXm7P

SPARK Enhanced Active Classroom (& Recess) - Lesson Plans Available! Check out all the details here: bit.ly/448ud4r #ActiveClassroom #physed #physicalactivity #recess pic.twitter.com/eMegOhTINX

Join @JeffMushkin SPARK Content Development Director TONIGHT for our SPARK June Webinar: Units to Invigorate Your PE Program - New SPARK K-12 Activities There is still time to register here: bit.ly/3TrwoLH?utm_so… #physed pic.twitter.com/SwmmjMyOzp

Make sure to stop by the SPARK booth at #KYSHAPE23 conference - chance to win an iPad! Plus, don't miss our presentation today at 1:45pm: Prep - Set & Thrive with SPARK PE Strategies, Activities, and More! (secondary focused) #physed @KY_SHAPE pic.twitter.com/VVgjH3ptP1

About SPARK

Join Our Team

International

Spark partners, private policy, webinar archive, active schools, teacher of the year, upcoming events, covid relief funding, resource sites, sparkfamily.org.

Lesson Plan Sections

• Environmental (1)
• Science (1)

P.E. Lessons

Physical education prepares children for an active and healthy life while improving self discipline and reducing stress. This section includes PE lessons from kindergarten through high school spanning different skill levels and objectives. Lessons are categorized by grade for easy retrieval. These lessons were created by real teachers working in schools across the United States. The section will continue to grow as more teachers like you share your lesson plans. We encourage you! Share your lessons plans Teacher.org, contact us .

Sponsored School(s)

P.e. environmental lesson plans, food chain tag.

Students will learn a brief background about energy transfer between the sun, producers, primary consumers, and secondary consumers. ½ of the students are primary consumers (plants) and ¼ of the students are primary consumers (rabbits) and ¼ of the students are secondary consumers (hawks).

P.E. P.E. Lesson Plans

Aces and exercise.

Using a deck of playing cards, the students will pick the number of reps for various exercises.  

And Freeze!

Students will practice listening skills and basic physical concepts as required in physical education class. Students will also work on balance and coordination.

Animal Laps

Combining information about the speed of animals, the students will run laps in the gym or outdoors.

Basketball Relay

Students will practice teamwork, dribbling, and shooting a basketball.

Bear Hunt Obstacle Course

This plan will combine reading with balance and coordination skills to allow students to navigate a simple obstacle course.

Boom Over Movement Game

Students will play a game in which they need to change direction quickly. Students are to pretend that they are on a sailboat that is in the middle of a storm. They will have to run and change direction based on verbal commands and duck quickly to avoid being hit by the imaginary boom.

Butterfly Stretches

This lesson is designed to help students learn the importance and reasons for exercise through multiple activities and discussions.

Coordination Course

This plan will allow students to practice coordination while staying physical.

Multi-Ball Basketball

The student will participate in a game of basketball using various sizes of available balls.

Music Movement

The students will move to the music based on its beat, words, tune, and other variables.

On Top of Spaghetti

Pe immigration.

The students will research games and activities from other countries to share during a PE class.

Pass It Off

This lesson will allow students to practice passing, dribbling, and bouncing skills using basketballs

Plate Aerobics

Students will practice basic aerobics moves while trying to stay positioned on paper plates, this aids in coordination.

Race to the Answer

This lesson will allow students to practice teamwork, basic math skills, and get exercise through a relay race. Note: Problems/difficulty level can be altered by grade

Ride ‘Em Cowboy/girl

This lesson will allow students to practice gross motor skills.  

Students will practice listening skills and basic physical concepts as required in physical education class.

Ski to the Finish Line

This plan will allow students to practice coordination while staying physical. Students will demonstrate moving straight, backwards, and in a zig-zag pattern.

The New PE Class

The students will create a PE activity to share and demonstrate to peers.

This lesson will allow students to practice teamwork and trust building, as well as working on directionality for younger students.

What Time is it FOX?

The students play a game where they practice different movements including jumping, galloping, skipping, running, jogging, leaping, and walking. Based on National Physical Education Standards, students should have been learning these skills for the last 4 years.

P.E. Science Lesson Plans

Ready to pursue a master’s degree in education make it your time.

Teacher.org’s lesson plans encourage conceptual understanding and lifelong learning skills in students as well as empower and motivate teachers.

Are you currently teaching but have the desire to pursue a Master’s Degree in Education? Follow your passion for teaching but at the same time give yourself the tools to further your career and learning. Whether it’s higher salaries, advanced career opportunities, or leadership positions, earning your Master’s Degree in Education is one worth pursuing. Make it your time!

• Games to Play with Friends
• Indoor Group Games and Activities
• Fun Outdoor Games for Kids
• Fun Frisbee Games for Kids
• Trivia Questions for Kids
• Fun Playground Games for Kids
• Preschool Themes
• St. Patrick’s Day
• Valentine’s day
• Thanksgiving
• 75 Clean Jokes for Kids to Tell at School
• 55 Funny Halloween Jokes for Kids
• 45 Cow Jokes for Kids that Adults Will Love Too
• 101 Winter Jokes for Kids
• Our Editorial Guidelines
• Meet Our Review Board
• Weekly Column

Themes & Lesson Planning

25 elementary physical education lesson plans.

Almost every elementary school curriculum includes physical education. Physical activity should be a regular part of children’s lives so they can  develop their activity skills, motion, balance and overall physical fitness. 

Physical activity  not only helps children develop critical physical skills, but it also encourages healthy habits and improves educational performance .

To ensure that students receive a comprehensive physical education experience, it is  important to have well-planned and engaging lesson plans . However, even experienced teachers find it challenging to design engaging and developmentally appropriate physical education lesson plans.

Fortunately, there are many resources available for teachers to create effective physical education lesson plans.  A little creativity and planning can help teachers design lesson plans  that incorporate a variety of skills and activities, and tailor them to their students’ skills and needs.

The goal of this article is to explore the fundamentals of physical education lesson planning for elementary students. Our goal is to provide an  overview of the different types of lessons that can be used to engage students and develop appropriate fitness goals and objectives.

Whether you are a new teacher looking for inspiration or an experienced teacher updating your curriculum, this article will provide you with information and ideas that will make creating engaging and effective physical education lesson plans easier.

You will gain insights into how to integrate different types of activities into your lessons, from warm-ups to cool-downs. In general, this article will  help you plan effective physical education lesson plans that will improve the physical skills of your students  and improve their overall health and well-being.

Why Physical Education Is Important for Elementary Students?

There are several reasons why elementary students need physical education lesson plans. The first and foremost purpose of physical education is to  promote physical health and fitness .

Children can  maintain a healthy weight, develop strong bones and muscles, and reduce their risk of chronic diseases  like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity by participating in regular physical activity.

Including physical education in the school day ensures that children get the exercise they require in order to stay healthy.

Besides promoting physical health , physical education lesson plans encourage children to develop motor skills and coordination . Practicing coordination and balance while running, jumping, throwing, and catching can help children develop a greater sense of body awareness and control. 

Physical activity is also linked with mental development and consistency  that’s why developing athletic skills at a young age can also help children perform better academically.

Social and emotional development is another skill that can be promoted through physical education lesson plans . Communication, cooperation, and teamwork are among the social skills that children can develop through group activities and team sports.

During these activities, children can gain new skills, achieve personal goals and build self-esteem and confidence.

It’s a common fact that fun and engaging physical education lesson plans can  keep students motivated and active throughout the school day. 

Let alone that teaching children how to remain engaged in physical activity can help them develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

List of Elementary P.E Activities for your Lesson Plan

1. warm-up stretches.

Warm-up stretches are an  essential feature of any physical education lesson plan . The benefits of stretching before physical activity include  preparing the body for movement, increasing blood flow to the muscles, and reducing the risk of injury . Warming up your students with stretches can also  keep them engaged and motivated.

Your warm-up routine can be enhanced by teaching students different stretches and  having them perform them in a circuit-style fashion . During a circuit-style warm-up, students rotate through different stretches or exercises, each performing the stretch or exercise for a set amount of time before moving on to the next.

Make sure your warm-up stretches target a variety of muscle groups and body parts . For example, you might do stretches for the hamstrings, quadriceps, calves, chest, shoulders, and neck. However, keep in mind that students should also be taught  stretches that are appropriate to their age and skill level.

To make warm-up stretches more engaging add music to your warm-up stretches or incorporate partner stretches . Stretching with a partner can improve trust and teamwork skills for students, as well as provide a deeper stretch than stretching alone.

Stretching is a great way to prepare your students’ bodies for physical activity while also keeping them active and enthusiastic. Lastly, by teaching students the importance of warming up and stretching before any physical activity, you can  help them develop healthy habits  that they can carry into their future.

2. Fitness Circuit 

Incorporating a fitness circuit into a physical education lesson plan is a  great way to include a variety of exercises and activities . The intention of a circuit is to  rotate through several stations, each focused on a different type of activity or exercise.

Here is an example of a fitness circuit for elementary students:

Station 1: Jumping Jacks

Students should perform 20 jumping jacks. By performing this exercise, students will improve cardiovascular endurance and strengthen their arms, legs, and core.

Station 2: Hula Hoops

Give students hula hoops and have them practice spinning them around their waists or performing tricks with them. This activity helps develop coordination and balance.

Station 3: Lunges

On each leg, have students perform 10 lunges. By performing this exercise, students will strengthen their legs and improve their balance.

Station 4: Jump Rope

Give students jump ropes and have them jump continuously for 30 seconds. This exercise boosts cardiovascular endurance and coordination.

Station 5: Push-ups

Have students perform 5 push-ups. This exercise is ideal for building up the upper body.

Station 6: Balance Beam

Set up a balance beam and have students practice walking across it or doing other balance exercises. This activity can improve balance and core strength.

Station 7: Sit-ups

Students should perform 10 sit-ups. This exercise helps strengthen the core.

Rotating through these stations will not only improve students’ coordination, balance, and cardiovascular endurance, but will also offer a full-body workou t.

By increasing the number of repetitions or the amount of time spent at each station, you can make the circuit more challenging. If you feel that your circuit lesson plan becomes a bit boring you can switch out stations or use different equipment.

Yoga poses can be a  fun and engaging way to promote physical activity and mindfulness  in elementary school students.  It has been proven that yoga is beneficial to both mental and physical health , including increasing  flexibility, strength, and balance, and reducing stress . Here is an example of a basic yoga sequence that can be used with elementary school students:

• Mountain Pose

Students should stand tall with their feet hip-width apart and their arms by their sides. Encourage them to take deep breaths and focus on grounding themselves in the present moment.

• Downward Facing Dog

In the downward-facing dog pose, students should come down on their hands and knees, then lift their hips up and back. Practising this pose is beneficial for stretching the hamstrings, calves, and spine.

Bring students into standing and have them rest one foot on the opposite thigh, pressing their foot into the thigh while bringing their hands to their heart centre. The purpose of this pose is to improve balance and concentration.

• Child’s Pose

Get students to come down to their knees and sit back on their heels, stretching out their arms. Practising this pose helps to release tension from the back and shoulders.

By introducing students to basic yoga poses and guiding them through a sequence, you can  help them foster physical skills, mindfulness, and overall well-being . Let alone  group yoga can also foster a sense of community  and connection among students.

4. Tag Games

The c lassic and popular tag game is a great way to get elementary school students active.  Chasing after and trying to tag their peers is an excellent way to  promote cardiovascular endurance and coordination . The following are some examples of classic tag games that can be played with elementary school students:

During freeze tag, one player is “it” and tries to tag other players. When tagged, a player must freeze in place until another player crawls between their legs to “unfreeze” them. The game continues until all players are frozen.

• Sharks and Minnows

In Sharks and Minnows, one or more players are designated as the “sharks” and sit in the centre of a selected area. The other players are the “minnows” and must try to run from one side of the area to the other without getting tagged by the sharks. In the event that a player is tagged, they become a shark and help on tagging other players.

In blob tag, one player starts as the “blob” and tries to tag other players. A tagged player must help tag other players by joining hands with the blob. As more players join, the blob grows bigger and bigger until every player has been tagged.

Elementary school students can  have fun while improving their cardiovascular endurance, coordination, and teamwork skills  when they play tag games. It is also possible to modify or change the rules of these games in order to make them suitable for different skill levels and group sizes.

Additionally,  playing tag games can promote physical activity and exercise while also developing social skills like communication and sportsmanship.

5. Ninja Warrior Course

The Ninja Warrior Course is a  challenging and exciting way to encourage physical activity and develop strength, agility, and problem-solving skills  in young students.

The Ninja Warrior course is based on the popular television show American Ninja Warrior and can be set up indoors or outdoors, depending on the skill level and size of the group.

Some popular obstacles in a Ninja Warrior Course for kids involve balance beams, rope swings, cargo nets, monkey bars, and wall climbs.  By setting up a Ninja Warrior course kids can build their confidence and skills gradually as they progress through the obstacles.

Elementary school students  benefit physically and mentally  from Ninja Warrior Courses. It is a great way to  promote fitness and healthy habits, while also encouraging kids to challenge themselves and develop important life skills .

6. Football Skills 

Football is one of the most favourite and adored sports of all time. Kids love to play and chase the ball; that’s why creating a P.E. lesson plan for football will excite students. 

Football skills r efer to the physical abilities and techniques required to play football effectively . These skills include  passing, dribbling, shooting, and ball control , among others. Developing football skills requires practice, coordination, and physical fitness. 

By improving their football skills,   students can increase their enjoyment of the game and improve their performance on the field . Additionally, learning football skills can encourage physical exercise and healthy routines, while also building trust and teamwork skills.

Football Skills Lesson Plan Example

Materials: Footballs, cones or markers, goals or target areas.

Warm-up (5-10 minutes):

• Jogging: Have students jog around the field or designated area to get their heart rate up and warm up their muscles.
• High Knees: Have students jog in place while bringing their knees up to their chest.
• Butt Kicks: Have students jog in place while bringing their heels up to their butt.
• Side Shuffles: Have students shuffle to the left and then to the right, facing the same direction.
• Stretching: Have students stretch their legs, arms, and back.

Main Activity (30-40 minutes):

• Passing Drills: Divide students into pairs and have them practice passing the ball back and forth to each other. Encourage them to use the inside of their foot to pass the ball accurately.
• Dribbling Drills: Set up a course using cones or markers and have students dribble the ball through the course, using both feet to improve their coordination and control.
• Shooting Drills: Set up goals or target areas and have students practice shooting the ball into them. Urge them to use proper techniques, such as planting their non-kicking foot next to the ball and following through with their kicking foot.

Cool Down (5-10 minutes):

• Walking: Have students walk around the field or designated area to bring their heart rates back down.
• Static Stretching: Have students stretch their legs, arms, and back to prevent muscle soreness and improve flexibility.

7. Noodle Hockey 

The game of noodle hockey is a  great way to expose children to hockey and help them build their physical fitness and agility.  The soft and less rigid nature of pool noodles makes the game safer and less likely to cause injury; that’s why they are excellent for an elementary physical education activity.

In addition, the use of foam balls as the puck allows for a lighter and easier-to-handle object, making it accessible for young children to participate.

Including noodle hockey in elementary physical education courses or after-school activities  can encourage communication and teamwork . The game  provides children of all skill levels with a fun and inclusive environment for them to enjoy and develop a love of physical activity.  

Noodle hockey is an excellent way to introduce children to the fundamentals of a popular sport while teaching them about staying active.

8. Balloon Tennis

Another enjoyable activity for physical education classes in elementary school is balloon tennis. Regardless of the season, physical education teachers can  easily set up the game, use minimal equipment, and play it indoors or outdoors.

During balloon tennis, children can  exercise and develop their motor skills, coordination, and reflexes while having fun . This low-risk activity uses a balloon instead of a ball, so children can  learn the basics of tennis without being injured or frustrated  by the traditional tennis ball and racket.

Furthermore, balloon tennis  can be   played in groups or pairs , allowing children to develop communication and teamwork skills. It is also possible to modify the game rules so that it is accessible to students of all skill levels.

In general, balloon tennis is a  safe and fun way to teach children the fundamentals of popular tennis sport.

9. Fitness Dice

Fitness dice is a  fun and interactive way to encourage physical activity  in elementary schools. These  large foam dice have different exercises and movements printed on each side , such as jumping jacks, lunges, and push-ups. S tudents roll the dice and then perform the exercise indicated on the side that faces up.

Fitness dice can be used in a variety of ways in elementary physical education classes.  Teachers can use them as part of a warm-up routine or as a way to break up the monotony of traditional exercises.  They can also be used in group activities or as a fun way to introduce new exercises and movements to students.

Using fitness dice in elementary schools encourages physical fitness and helps children formulate coordination, balance, and dexterity. Additionally, because the dice provide a variety of exercises, students can exercise different muscle groups and improve their overall fitness levels.

Fitness dice are also a great way to make physical activity more fun and engaging for children . They  can be used as part of a game or challenge, and students can compete with one another  to see who can complete the exercises the fastest or with the most accuracy.

Overall, fitness dice is a versatile and useful tool for boosting physical training and improving fitness levels in elementary schools. The foam dice exercise can provide a fun and interactive way for children to engage in physical activity and develop important motor skills and coordination.

10. Jump Rope

Jump rope is a  traditional and widely used physical exercise  that can be integrated into elementary school physical education plans. Students can benefit physically and mentally by learning basic jump rope skills and practising in groups or individually.

The jump rope activity c an improve students’ coordination, balance, and cardiovascular fitness.  By playing this game – activity students can also gain a  better sense of rhythm, timing, and spatial awareness . A fun and engaging activity like jumping rope can also  help students relieve stress and improve their mood.

To teach elementary students jump rope skills,  you should start with basic jumps such as the two-foot jump and then progress to more advanced jumps like the cross-over and double-under . To make the activity more exciting and varied, teachers can include jump rope games, such as Double Dutch.

It’s a  versatile activity for all weather conditions , as you can game both indoors and outdoors. Additionally, the jump rope  can be easily modified to suit different skill levels and abilities , making it accessible to everyone.

Including dance in an elementary school fitness education plan is an amazing way to inspire students to engage in physical activity while also delivering a fun and innovative source for self-expression.  Introducing a simple dance routine and having students perform it together can offer a range of physical and mental benefits.

Dance delivers a full-body exercise that can improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, balance, and coordination . It can also improve flexibility, posture, and body awareness. Moreover, dance is an imaginative and expressive training that  can assist students to build confidence, self-esteem, and social skills.

When teaching a dance routine to elementary students,  it is important to choose music and choreography that are appropriate for their age.  Teachers can also include different styles of dance, such as hip-hop, jazz, or ballet, to r eveal students’ different workout/dance techniques.

Dance can be performed both indoors and outdoors, making it an adaptable activity that can be adjusted to all spaces.  It can also be altered to suit different group sizes, making it an inclusive activity for all students.

In summary, mixing dance into an elementary school physical education plan is an  excellent way to encourage physical wellness, creativity, self-expression, and social skills .

By teaching a simple dance routine and encouraging students to perform it together, teachers can help students improve their physical and mental well-being while also having fun.

12. Heads or Tails

Heads or Tails is an exciting and easy physical exercise that can be used by elementary school physical education teachers to get students engaged and active during class time.  All that is needed to play this game is a coin and a list of physical activities for students to perfor m.

To play Heads or Tails, pairs of students are given a coin and take turns flipping it.  If the coin lands on heads, the first student in the pair chooses an activity from the list and the pair performs it together . If the coin lands on tails, the second student in the pair chooses an activity.

The list of physical activities can be tailored to the age and skill level of the students and can include a variety of exercises such as jumping jacks, push-ups, squats, or lunges . By allowing students to choose their own activities, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated to participate.

Heads or Tails is a great way to get students warmed up and ready for other fitness lessons . It is also a perfect activity for days when there is limited time for lesson prep. Additionally, this game helps to improve coordination, balance, and other physical skills.

Heads or Tails is a simple and practical physical activity that can be used by elementary school physical education teachers to engage students and get them moving. 

13. Cone Race

The cone race is a fun, engaging activity that is great for children in first grade and younger. By playing this game,  students will improve their hand-eye coordination, motor skills, and colour recognition .

The activity involves  placing cut-up pool noodles over tall plastic pipes  or broom handles inserted into cones to hold them steady.

To play Cone Race, students are divided into teams and given a set of pool noodles that have been cut up into small pieces.  The goal of the game is to match the coloured noodles with the corresponding cones . The team that matches all its noodles to the cones first wins.

For this fitness lesson,  students must focus on their hand movements and the placement of the noodles  as they place the cut-up pool noodles over the tall plastic pipes or broom handles.

A cone race is a great way to get young students moving and engaged in physical education. Regardless of class size or skill level, it is simple to set up and adaptable. Overall,  the Cone Race is a great way to promote physical activity and help young children develop their motion and mental – thinking skills.

14. Parachute Fun

Parachute games are a fun and exciting way for elementary students to learn about  teamwork, coordination, and motor skills . Here is a lesson plan for a parachute game that can be used in an elementary PE class:

Objectives:

• Students will learn to work together as a team.
• Students will develop gross motor skills.
• Students will have fun and stay active.
• Large parachute
• Balls or beanbags
• Warm-up: Have students stand in a circle around the parachute. Begin by keeping everyone hold onto the parachute with one hand and doing some light stretches with the other hand. Then, have them switch hands and repeat the stretches.
• Introduce the game: Present to the students that they will be playing a game with the parachute. Have them practice lifting and lowering the parachute as a group.

Game 1 : Ball toss. Place some balls or beanbags in the middle of the parachute. Have the students lift and lower the parachute to toss the balls into the air and then catch them on the parachute.

Game 2 : Parachute popcorn. Have the students lift and lower the parachute quickly to make the balls or beanbags “pop” up like popcorn.

Game 3 : Switch sides. Divide the students into two groups and have them stand on opposite sides of the parachute. On the count of three, have each group lift the parachute and walk towards the other group until they have switched sides.

• Cool down: Have the students gather around the parachute and take turns saying one thing they liked about the game.

Variations:

• Change the number of balls or beanbags used in the games.
• Change the movements of the parachute (e.g., waving, shaking, twisting).
• Add in more complex games like “shark attack” where students must run under the parachute without getting tagged by students holding it.

Parachute games are a great way to  get students excited about PE  while teaching them valuable skills like teamwork and coordination. By incorporating fun and interactive games like these into PE classes, students are more likely to  develop a lifelong love of physical activity.

15. Olympic-Style Events 

Olympic-style events can be a great way to engage elementary students in physical education and  teach them about the importance of sportsmanship, cooperation, and determination .

These events can be created to be age-appropriate and can be  adjusted to suit the skill levels  and capabilities of each individual student.

Some examples of Olympic-style events that can be integrated into elementary  physical education   lesson plans include relay races, obstacle courses, long jump competitions, and mini-triathlons .

Students can be teamed into groups and allowed to contest against one another, with medals or ribbons awarded to the winners.

In addition to the physical benefits Olympic-style events, can also provide an opportunity for  students to learn about different countries and cultures .

The Olympics is a global event that brings together athletes from all over the world, and elementary students  can learn about different countries and their traditions through classroom discussion s and research projects.

Overall, Olympic-style events can be a joyful and fascinating way to  encourage   physical activity and teach important values  to elementary students. By incorporating these events into physical education lesson plans, teachers can help students formulate a lifelong love of sports and physical fitness.

16. Basketball Skills 

Basketball is a famous sport that can make students excited about physical education. Here are some basketball skills that can be integrated into an elementary physical education lesson plan:

• Dribbling : Familiarize students with the basics of dribbling, including proper hand placement and dribbling techniques. Have them practice dribbling in a specified area or through an obstacle course.
• Shooting : Introduce students to fundamental shooting techniques, such as the BEEF (balance, elbow, eyes, follow-through) approach. Have them practice shooting baskets from various spots on the court.
• Passing : Train students how to properly pass a basketball, including chest passes, bounce passes, and overhead passes. Have them practice passing to a partner or through an obstacle course.
• Defence : Teach students primary defensive techniques, such as guarding an opponent and blocking shots. Have them rehearse these techniques in one-on-one or small group drills.
• Gameplay : Separate learners into teams and have them play an altered game of basketball. Make sure to highlight the significance of good sportsmanship and teamwork.

By incorporating these basketball skills into a physical education lesson plan, elementary students can grow their coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship skills, all while having fun and staying active.

17. Volleyball Skills 

Volleyball is a famous team sport played worldwide, and it is also a great way to enhance physical wellness and develop teamwork skills. In elementary physical education classes, students can be introduced to the basics of volleyball and learn skills such as serving, bumping, setting, and spiking. 

By incorporating volleyball skills into lesson plans, teachers can help students develop their hand-eye coordination, motor skills, and communication skills.  Volleyball can be played with varying levels of intensity, making it adaptable for different age groups and skill levels.

• Students will be able to execute basic volleyball skills such as passing, setting, and serving.
• Students will be able to work collaboratively with their peers to accomplish a common goal.
• Students will learn the importance of communication and teamwork in a sports setting.
• Volleyballs
• Cones to mark boundaries
• Students will participate in a brief warm-up that includes jogging, jumping jacks, and stretches.

Skill Instruction

• The teacher will instruct students on how to perform basic volleyball skills such as passing, setting, and serving.
• Students will practice each skill individually, then work in pairs to practice passing and setting to each other.
• Students will divide into teams and play an altered version of volleyball that concentrates on practising the skills they learned.
• Teams will work to pass, set, and serve the ball over the net to score points.
• The teacher will observe and provide feedback to students to help them improve their skills.
• Students will participate in a brief cool-down that includes stretching and reflection on what they learned during the lesson.

Assessment:

• The teacher will assess students’ progress in performing basic volleyball skills during the gameplay portion of the lesson.
• The teacher will also assess students’ ability to work collaboratively with their peers and communicate effectively during the gameplay portion of the lesson.
• For advanced students, the teacher can introduce more complicated volleyball skills such as spiking and blocking.
• Students can make their own individual versions of the game to practice various skills.
• The teacher can include a discussion about sportsmanship and fairness in sports.

18. Hula Hoop

The Hula hoop is  an adaptable object that can be utilised for a broad range of physical activities in elementary schools . It can help children develop their  teamwork, balance, and motion skills , while also promoting cardiovascular health and endurance. In physical education classes, hula hoop games can be incorporated in many ways, including:

• Hula Hoop Relay

Divide students into teams and have them race to pass a Hula Hoop down the line as fast as possible. Each line of students stands in a line and holds a Hula Hoop. Upon receiving the signal, the first player passes the Hula Hoop to the next in line without letting go. The game continues until the last player in each line reaches the end and crosses the finish line.

• Hula Hoop Tag

This fun game twists the classic game of tag. To play the game Hula Hoops must be worn around students’ waists as they run around a designated area. The student who is “it” tries to tag the other students with their Hula Hoop. Students must also hold their own Hula Hoop once they are tagged and attempt to tag others.

• Hula Hoop Toss

An excellent game for developing hand-eye coordination. Each student tosses a Hula Hoop to a partner in a circle. A Hula Hoop must be kept moving around the circle without being dropped. If you want to make the game more challenging, try adding a second or third Hula Hoop.

• Hula Hoop Obstacle Course

 Use Hula Hoops to create an obstacle course. In order to complete the game, the students finish the course without touching the Hula Hoops. This game is a great way to develop balance and agility.

Students can engage in physical activity and promote their overall health and well-being through hula hoop games and activities. In general,  children can learn healthy habits that will last a lifetime by engaging in fun and exciting physical activities  and moving their bodies.

19. Rock Climbing 

Rock climbing c an be an exciting and innovative activity to add a physical activity lesson for elementary students . It’s an activity that not only boosts  physical strength and endurance but also helps students to build their problem-solving skills. 

One perfect way to introduce rock climbing to students is by adding to your course equipment a bouldering wall in the gymnasium or in an outdoor space.  Start by teaching students the basic techniques of climbing and bouldering , like footwork and handholds, and progress to more difficult courses as they earn experience and confidence.

As a teacher , you can also use a portable climbing wall that can be easily set in any space . Those walls are made to be perfectly safe and user-friendly for children and can be adapted to all skill levels and ages. 

However,  keep in mind that this sport is a bit more dangerous and demanding that’s why proper supervision and equipment   should always be in place . By using a climbing wall you will help students to develop both physical and mental skills.

20. Scooter Board Activities

Scooter boards are  small boards with wheels that can be used for a variety of physical activities . Scooter board activities can be an  innovative lesson  to add to your physical education lesson plan as elementary students can be  taught valuable skills like balance, coordination and teamwork skills . There are many scooter board activities that can suit all skill levels and ages.

Some  famous scooter board activities are relay races, obstacle courses, and target games . For relay races, students can contest in teams and check who can finish the course in the fastest time, while also sitting or lying on the small scooter boards.

Obstacle courses can be set up using cones, hurdles, and other tools to challenge students’ balance and motion skills. Target games can include actions like rolling a ball or beanbag onto a target while seating on a scooter board.

Scooter board activities can be  adjusted for all ages and skill levels . They are a versatile option for physical education teachers who are tired of using the same traditional games. 

They can be utilises as an exciting break from classic sports and games , while still providing useful physical activity and skill development opportunities.

21. Sack Races

Sack races are a  classic physical activity that elementary school students can participate in and have fun while exercising . This activity involves students standing inside a large sack or pillowcase and jumping toward a finish line .

A student wins the race if he or she crosses the finish line first . Everything is a matter of speed, balance and coordination skills

A sack race is not only a fun and entertaining activity, but it  can also provide a number of physical perks . The purpose of sack games is to develop  fine control skills, coordination, balance, and leg strength.  The distance and size of the sacks can also be  adjusted for students of different ages and skill levels.

For a more challenging activity, you can  use obstacles such as cones or hoops and let students race through them . Relay races can also be incorporated, where students pass the sack to each other before sprinting to the finish line. Generally, sack races can be a great way to get elementary students active and involved in physical education.

22. Kickball

Kickball is a  traditional physical education activity that is used in elementary schools for years.  Kickball is a simple twist of the classic baseball game.

The game involves kicking a large rubber ball instead of the traditional baseball one. T he game is played outdoors with four bases and a pitcher, and the purpose is to score runs by running around the bases after kicking the ball.

Kickball is an amazing activity that helps students  grow their fitness levels and physical skills, like strength and agility.  It is a game that also promotes more  personal skills like teamwork and sportsmanship , as students must play together to win the game while following the rules.

If you want to make the game more difficult there are plenty of variations that can be added. Apply some different rules for the base running or use different types of balls. Kickball games can be played in indoor and outdoor spaces making it an excellent choice for all elementary schools.

23. Wall Ball

Wall Ball is an easy and  exciting activity for elementary school students that can be played both indoors and outdoors . It is an amazing way to enhance  hand-eye coordination, throwing and catching skills, and overall fitness.

The game  involves throwing a ball against a wall and catching it before it hits the ground or bounces off  in an unexpected direction. Students can play this game individually or in teams, and the rules can be changed based on their age and skill level.

Wall Ball can be played with different types of balls such as tennis balls, rubber balls, or foam balls.  It is an easy and accessible game that requires minimal equipment and can be adapted to fit the available space and resources.  

Wall Ball also provides a chance for children to engage in friendly competition and practice sportsmanship. With the proper equipment and supervision, Wall Ball can be a safe and enjoyable activity for elementary students of all skill levels.

24. Topple Tube

Topple Tube encourages teamwork and strategic thinking through fun and engaging gameplay.  Students must be divided into teams in order to play the game.  Each team must flip its coloured cups to be on top of its opponents’ coloured cups in order to win the game.  The cups are placed on top of tall poles or tubes, making it challenging for players to reach them.

In this game,  two teams are formed, and each team is given a set of cups of a specific colour.  Afterwards, the players scatter around the playing area, flipping cups to the colours of their teams. Depending on the equipment available, you can use either plastic cups or wooden blocks with different colours on each end.

In order to flip the cups effectively, the players must strategize and communicate with each other.  To succeed in the game, they must also be quick on their feet and have good hand-eye coordination.  By the end of the game, the team with the most cups flipped to the colour of their team wins.

The Topple Tube is an excellent physical education activity for elementary school students. As well as promoting physical activity and hand-eye coordination,  Topple Tube promotes teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking skills.

25. Portable Balance Games

Portable balance games are  a great way to challenge elementary school students’ balance and coordination skills.  To play the games you  only need some buckets  in order to create the course and  place them upside-down .

The upside-down buckets can be modified to fit students of all skill levels since they can walk along them at their own pace.  If you want to make the activity more challenging, arrange the buckets in a zig-zag or curvy pattern . In order to navigate the bucket course, students will need to use their balance and gross motor skills in different ways.

Another  great feature of portable balance games is that they can be positioned indoors or outdoors . As a result, it is an excellent option on days when the weather may prevent outdoor activities or for classrooms with limited space.

In addition, the buckets are a  low-cost and convenient option for physical education lessons  on a budget since they can be easily stacked and stored.

In conclusion, physical education is a critical element of a well-rounded education.  It encourages physical exercise, teamwork, sportsmanship, and overall health and wellness . With the increasing prevalence of technology and passive lifestyles, it is more important than ever to foster children to engage in physical activity.

The 25 elementary physical education lesson plans listed above are just a few examples of the many activities and games that can be used to boost physical activity and learning.  As an instructor though you can form your own lesson plans  based on the requirements and interests of your students.

By making physical education fun and engaging, we can help children create a lifelong love of physical activity and healthy living . Let’s continue to prioritize physical education in our schools and communities, and encourage children to lead healthy, active lives.

Jessica Elrajan

Jessica Elrajan has been in the field of education for the past decade. She has taught all grade levels from Kindergarten through 5th grade (and some twice!). Jessica also wrote an ELA Curriculum for Elementary school students that has been implemented district-wide for six international schools in Asia and the Middle East. More about Jessica

Create Personalized Lessons with Over 500 Activities

Design a Detailed Yearly Curriculum

View 28 Units and Over 250 Lesson Plans

A New Online Training Series Developed by Dr. Robert Pangrazi!

Select a grade level below to learn more about dynamic pe asap., click a topic to learn more.

Lesson Building Tool + Over 500 Activities

Customizable 36-Week Yearly Plan

Free Downloadable Teaching Tools

Create Elementary PE Lessons in Seconds!

Recommended for grades k-8.

The most credible, research-backed source for PE lesson plans, now in a time-saving, adaptable format! We took the most popular, well-known PE curriculum in the world and made it incredibly easy to implement in seconds!

28 Secondary Units + Over 250 Lesson Plans!

Recommended for grades 7-12, popular units include:.

• Flag Football
• Weight Training

Over 1,000,000 Copies Sold!

Lessons from the most used pe curriculum.

Built around SHAPE National Standards for Physical Education, this comprehensive curriculum is designed to teach students through activities they enjoy and want to learn. 

Elementary Curriculum. The 19th edition of the Teacher’s Textbook is the most recent, cutting edge edition of the longest-running elementary methods textbook on the market. Dr. Robert Pangrazi explains how to implement a quality elementary PE program, improve instruction, and evaluate students.

Secondary Curriculum.  The updated 9th edition textbook includes suggestions and activities for beginning and experienced teachers. Doctors Timothy Brusseau and Heather Erwin made updates that continue to provide teachers with the foundational knowledge they need to teach quality secondary physical education. 

A special thank you to Gopher for their support of Dynamic PE ASAP

What are others saying about Dynamic PE ASAP?

"this site is something every hpe teacher needs.", "dynamic pe asap is a great resource for new to veteran hpe teachers. the site offers lesson plans that can be used in emergency lesson plan situations. my favorite resources are the videos, task cards, and stations cards offered with the lessons. this site is something every hpe teacher needs.", valeri cheseldine, charles county public schools, the dynamic pe asap website is by far the best resource or tool available...", "the dynamic pe asap website is by far the best resource or tool available for elementary and secondary physical education programs. it is a free resource that has lesson plans (four part- intro., fitness, skill focus & game), sample videos demonstrating on how to do and meets the shape american and state content standards. the scope and sequence is laid out to help any teacher from a college professor to a beginning teacher.", director of physical education preschool - 8th grade, university school shaker heights, ohio, "the lesson plans, activities, and resources are all excellent...", "your site is extremely organized and so user friendly. the lesson plans, activities, and resources are all excellent for the various grades and cover all the components that make up a quality p.e. program. the detailed weekly long range plans are well designed and follow a developmental pattern. they can easily be incorporated by any teacher who may not have a p.e. background and may not feel confident teaching p.e. to their class. i would definitely recommend this program/website to anyone who teaches p.e.", rob o'grady, molly brant elementary, kingston, ontario, about the authors, equipment packs, about the curriculum, about elementary, create lesson plans, dynamic pe asap yearly plan, about secondary, view secondary units.

© 2021 Gopher Sport. All Rights Reserved.

Sign up to receive our weekly lesson plans, inspirational messages from Dr. Robert Pangrazi, webinar information, and more sent directly to your inbox!

Select Your Grade Level:

• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

Additional menu

The PE Specialist

Awesome Resources for Physical Education Teachers

We make awesome resources for PE Teachers

Get instant free access to our weekly emails where we share cool resources and great tips about teaching physical education.

Main Content

I want to learn more about….

• How to Plan an Awesome Field Day

Posted on April 7, 2024

What's up Phys Ed Friends! I am pumped to finally publish this Field Day Blog Post and Resource Pack! I've been working on …

Continue Reading about How to Plan an Awesome Field Day →

The Cone Flip Mixer

Posted on April 5, 2024

What's up Phys Ed Fam! Today, we've got a fun game to share with you that your kids will love.  You can use it for a warm up …

Continue Reading about The Cone Flip Mixer →

Switch: A fun PE warmup game or instant activity | No Equipment |

Posted on April 4, 2024

What's Up PE Fam! I hope you are doing well, I wanted to share a fun new activity I tried out for the first time this …

Continue Reading about Switch: A fun PE warmup game or instant activity | No Equipment | →

The Phys Ed Q and A Show

How To Organize and Run a Successful Field Day

Posted on February 18, 2024

How to Organize and Run a Successful Field Day   (Link to Podcast Episode)   YouTube Show …

Continue Reading about How To Organize and Run a Successful Field Day →

Coping with Stress, Dealing with Behaviors, Lesson Closure and More

Posted on January 22, 2024

Coping with Stress, Dealing with Behaviors, Lesson Closure and More (Link to Podcast Episode) YouTube Show …

Continue Reading about Coping with Stress, Dealing with Behaviors, Lesson Closure and More →

Dealing With Behaviors, Sub Plans, Lesson Structure, and More

Posted on November 13, 2023

Dealing With Behaviors, Sub Plans, Lesson Structure, and More (Link to Podcast Episode) YouTube Show …

Continue Reading about Dealing With Behaviors, Sub Plans, Lesson Structure, and More →

Become a Member

Learn how to become a PE Specialist

All members gain access to everything we’ve ever created – Unit Plan Samples, Printable Station Signs, Community Forums, Games, Activities, Posters, E-courses, Exclusive Online Trainings and More!

Possible Side Effects:   A big smile on your face, cooler friends, reduced stress, improved self confidence and happier students.

Tell Me More!

Member Benefits

• E-Books and Resource Guides
• Follow the leader videos
• Training and E-courses
• Printable signs and resources
• Community Forums

Top Resources

• Awesome Music for PE Class
• How to Teach Gymnastics (Unit Plan)
• 25 Exercise Posters
• The PE Poster Tour
• How to Teach Jumprope (Unit Plan)

Top Blog Posts

• How to Plan a Year of PE in 15 Minutes
• 5 Awesome Warm-up Activities
• How to Setup a TV in your Gym
• 5 Great Classroom Management Tips
• How to Motivate and Inspire Students
• You might be a PE Teacher if…

• Our Content
• Success Stories
• Schedule A Demo
• Login / Register

PE Lesson Plans (With Free Downloadble PDFs)

• Doug Curtin
• December 15, 2022

There are endless PE lesson plans to choose from for your physical education class. We break down the importance of physical education lesson plans and highlight some of the best places to find physical education lesson plans for your age and audience.

The Importance Of Physical Education Lesson Plans

Physical education as a subject in school has always battled stereotypes. Unfortunately, many wrongly assume that a pe teacher just “rolls out the ball” for a typical PE class. But anyone who has observed or taken part in a quality physical education program knows that the subject of PE is one of the best opportunities for students’ physical health development.

Per the CDC,  physical education is an academic subject just like math, science, or social studies,

“It (PE) is an academic subject characterized by a planned, sequential K–12 curriculum (course of study) that is based on the national standards for physical education. Physical education provides cognitive content and instruction designed to develop motor skills, knowledge, and behaviors for physical activity and physical fitness.”  (CDC Healthy Schools – Physical Education & Physical Activity)

Therefore, physical education lesson plans are essential to developing a sequential curriculum. At every grade level, PE lesson plans can provide students in physical education class opportunities to develop lifelong fitness, health, and wellness skills.

Turning Ideas For PE Into Lesson Plans For PE

There is no shortage of activity ideas for PE. Historically, most ideas for PE were shared at professional development trainings and state/national conferences. And while these are still great opportunities to check out new ideas for PE, the rise of social media has created a new avenue for physical education teachers.

Now, any PE teacher can log onto Twitter, Facebook, and other social media platforms and find countless great ideas for PE. For example, the  PE Central Facebook Group  has over 34,000 members and has daily posts from PE teachers across the country. In this group, teachers share fun games and activity ideas for every grade level and type of unit.

But taking these one-off activity ideas and turning them into pe lesson plans that fit with the entire year-long curriculum plan can take time and effort. But as a pe teacher, you don’t have to go at this lofty task alone!

Wrapping up our #basketball unit This Week in #PhysEd #Geneva304 @Williamsburg304 Check out all the videos, lesson plans, and resources I share each week HERE: https://t.co/vCmaPk80Eg pic.twitter.com/9m9YpXNsnI — Mike Graham (@pe4everykid) December 9, 2022

Check out this article on what’s going on in PE at Evergreen!!! Evergreen's Fitness and Strength Curriculum In Action | PLT4M ⁦ @PLT4M ⁩ ⁦ @evglocalschools ⁩ ⁦ @EHS_Vikes ⁩ https://t.co/AGPwh2c5Qt — Mr. Schmidt (@MrSchmidtEVG) December 7, 2022

Finding Lesson Plans For PE

When it comes to lesson planning for PE, many teachers find themselves trying to do it alone. And when it comes to trying to fill an entire year full of lesson plans for PE from scratch, it can become an overwhelming process.

But just like in any other subject, there are lesson plans for PE that can be utilized at any grade level.

For instance, when a math teacher has to teach a unit on multiplication, they don’t typically create lesson plans on their own. Instead, they turn to professionally designed lesson plans and curriculum.

Physical education should do the same! For example, a PE teacher might aim to introduce different movements like the squat, lunge, hinge, press, and pull in a foundational human movement unit. Instead of creating physical education lessons from a blank template, they can tap into grade-level appropriate programs and units that cover these skills in a series of physical education lessons.

At every grade level, there are tons of great PE lesson plans that teachers can utilize. And PE lesson plans are just that: PLANS. From a framework and structure, PE teachers can still adjust and modify lesson plans for PE to fit their time, setting, and student experience levels. But finding quality PE lesson plans can be a great starting point to save time and energy while still creating a physical education class to be proud of.

Example content! This instructional video is part of a larger fitness lesson utilized at the middle and high school level. 

Examples of Physical Education Lesson Plans

To get you started, we have highlighted at a high-level PE lesson plan options for every grade level bucket. 

While this article gives a bird’s eye view, we encourage you to explore some helpful links and resources for each grade level. So take a deep dive into your grade level and see if any of the resources provided can help you build out your PE lessons for an entire school year.

How Are Teachers Using PLT4M?

Explore PLT4M in this short video, and if you think PLT4M could work for your school, schedule a call to learn more!

High School PE Lesson Plans

High school physical education lesson plans are the final step before students graduate and are on their own for physical fitness and health. Therefore,  high school PE lesson plans  should take a progressional approach to support students’ individual interests.

For example, a high school physical education class will start everyone with the different elements of foundational fitness and then allow them to explore units like strength training, yoga, dance, pilates, and other lifelong fitness activities.

And although games are not as big of a focus as they are with younger students, some high school students will still want to play ball sports and other PE games. This can still be a piece of high school pe lesson plans! The primary goal for any high school pe lesson plan is to support students as they prepare for the next steps in their young adult lives.

Links for High School PE Lesson Plans

• PLT4M High School PE Lesson Plans [Free Download]
• Weight Training Lesson Plans 
• Dance Fitness Lesson Plans 
• Nutrition Lesson Plans
• Mindfulness Lesson Plans 
• Yoga Lesson Plans 
• Pilates Lessons Plans 
• Boxing Lesson Plans 
• Bodyweight Bootcamp Lesson Plans
• Stretching Lesson Plans 

Middle School PE Lesson Plans

Middle school physical education presents its unique challenges and opportunities. Middle school students are at a pivotal age regarding their relationships with fitness, health, and wellness. 

Many physical education teachers look to incorporate shorter middle school physical education units that can still cover key concepts, but not lose students’ interest. In addition,  middle school PE lessons  start to take on a more lifetime fitness approach.

Here, lesson plans for middle school can introduce students to different topics like fitness, yoga, dance, racquet sports, and more. Middle school PE lesson plans balance lifelong fitness activities and fun pe games.

Links for Middle School PE Lesson Plans

PLT4M Middle School PE Lesson Plans [Free Download]

• Kan Jam Lesson Plans 

27 Exciting PE Games For Middle School 

Pickleball Drills For Physical Education

Middle School Net Physical Education Lesson Plans 

Elementary PE Lesson Plans

Elementary pe is the first step for students on their lifelong fitness and wellness journey. At the elementary school level, you can teach some of the critical gross motor skills and fine motor skills that can be a launching point for future years to come.

While at the middle and high school level there has been a transition away from a PE games focused curriculum, elementary PE lessons still center around getting younger students moving through gameplay.

Links For Elementary PE Lesson Plans

31 Unique Phys Ed Games Your Students Will Love 

Quaver – Health and PE Lesson Plans 

AMPED – Physical Activity Program 

Key Takeaways On PE Lesson Plans

Don’t go at creating physical education lesson plans alone! There are endless resources, lesson plans, and community of PE teachers that are all available to make lesson planning streamlined and easy.

Often when a PE teacher considers incorporating new PE lesson plans, they view it as all or nothing endeavor. But starting small is a great first step to long-term success.

You can introduce your new PE lesson plans to just one PE class. Look at them as a trial run before rolling out a new curriculum across all of your classes.

Another approach is just picking one of the new PE units you found and introducing it over a few weeks. Again, this small step can let you test run your new PE lesson plans without having to overhaul an entire year’s curriculum.

No matter your approach, don’t be afraid to tap into the community and team of physical education professionals across the united states that are all working towards a shared mission of empowering lifelong physical activity, health, and wellness. 

Ready Learn More?

Check out a demo and if PLT4M is right for your school, schedule a call with one of our specialists to learn more!

Share this article:

Recent Posts

Treadmill Running Workouts For Students

Gymnastics Lesson Plans

Lifetime Fitness Activities

Interested if PLT4M can work at your school?

At Stockbridge JR/SR High School, students from all grade levels come to the weight room with different experiences, interests, and abilities. How do they ensure that all students leave feeling personal achievement, and keep them coming back every year?

Building A Successful 7th-12th Grade Weight Training Program

Stockbridge Junior Senior High School has developed a 7th-12th weight training program that is building a sense of success in all students.

What does Lifetime Fitness Activity mean in your Physical Education curriculum? What activities do you expose students to, and why?

Lifetime fitness activities in physical education can support lifelong fitness, health, and wellness. See how!

At this HS, PE students can choose from a range of fitness activities - options like weightlifting, yoga, boxing, pilates, and bootcamp. Encouraging exploration & choice, it empowers them with the skills and confidence for a lifetime of health & wellness.

Student Choice in PE Leads To School-Wide Success

How does a school increase the motivation and excitement around physical education? Hutsonville does it by empowering student choice!

How does a high school Physical Education department transition from primarily a games-based program to a more fitness-focused curriculum?

Fitness-Focused Phys Ed At Hammond Central

After obtaining a grant to invest in curriculum and technology, Hammond Central has seen success with fitness-focused phys ed!

get.plt4m.com

With SEL playing a more prominent role in the crafting of physical education curriculum, how do you go about addressing mental health by way of emotion?

Lesson Plans On Emotions For Middle and High School Students

We discuss the importance of teaching social-emotional development in middle and high schools and provide 3 sample lesson plans on emotions.

How did one high school place students, with their own personal goals and choices, at the center of the approach to Physical Education?

Student-Centered Strength And Fitness Classes

Littlestown High School in Pennsylvania is seeing the positive results of student-centered learning in Strength and Fitness classes.

Complete teaching bundles for incredible prices

NO PREP Physical Education Lesson Plans

Choose your currency

Quickly and easily plan your physical education lessons and PE activities with these NO PREP Physical Education Lesson Plans. This resource includes 35 PE lesson plans and activities that will last the entire school year. Each lesson is on a separate card which makes it easy to grab and go! Perfect for taking to the gym, the field, the court, or the classroom. 

Looking to broaden your PE curriculum? Check out the latest offering, “ Soccer, Basketball & More PE Lesson Plans. ” Ideal for grades 3-6, this resource provides engaging sports-based activities for skill development.

Each lesson includes ideas for warm-up activities, skill practice, and games. Each card also shows you the equipment you will need, the ages/grade levels the activities are suited for, and any needed diagrams. A variety of skills, concepts, sports, and activities are included in this resource. 

View the Preview Video to see everything included in this resource!

No prep physical education lesson plans and activities includes

• 35 ready to print lesson plan cards
• Each card includes:
• Warm-up ideas
• Skills practice activities
• Suitable Grades / Levels
• Equipment Needed
• Game / Activity Instructions
• Game / Activity Diagrams

These PE lesson plans cover:

Section One: Fundamental Skills

1.1 – Catch 1.2 – Skipping 1.3 – Soccer pass 1.4 – Sprint run 1.5 – Overarm throw

Section Two: Early Morning Fitness

2.1 – Aerobic dance 2.2 – Circuit training 2.3 – Cross country run 2.4 – Games 2.5 – Obstacle course

Section Three: Modified Sports

3.1 – Freeball 3.2 – Mini basketball 3.3 – Mini soccer 3.4 – Mini tennis 3.5 – Netta netball 3.6 – Tee-ball

Section Four: Athletics

4.1 – Javelin 4.2 – Long jump 4.3 – Relay 4.4 – Shot put

Section Five: Dance

5.1 – Cobbler’s dance 5.2 – Hokey pokey 5.3 – Let the feet go tramp 5.4 – Shoo fly 5.5 – Springtime on the farm

Section Six: Gymnastics

6.1 – Body awareness 6.2 – Body control 6.3 – Flexibility 6.4 – Locomotion 6.5 – Strength

Section Seven: Indoor Games

7.1 – Do as I do 7.2 – Hide in sight 7.3 – Magic carpet 7.4 – Missing people 7.5 – Posture tag

See what teachers are saying about the PE lesson plans and activities

• “This is such a handy pack to have! I love that the lessons are in detail so I know exactly what equipment I need and how to carry out the lesson. Thanks Melinda for another terrific resource.”
• “A wonderful resource, easy to follow and great fun for the kids!!! Thank you!”
• “I’ve always had trouble figuring out what to do for PE class. This is great. Thank you.”
• “Nice and thorough. I am excited to use this with my elementary aged students for p.e.!”
• “Thank you so much for this. I am still using this years after the original purchase. Thank you.”
• “Thank you! This will simplify my P.E. planning tremendously!”

Download your copy now, click the button below to Buy Now!

A sneak peek inside the physical education lesson plans.

Click here to download a preview of the physical education lesson plans.

This item is also available in my Teachers Pay Teachers store.

What do you receive after your purchase?

Once you have completed your purchase you will receive an email with your receipt and a link to download the item.

Click on the link in the email to open the resource as a PDF. You are then able to save the resource to your computer.

If you don’t see the email in your inbox check your spam or promotions folder.

Download your copy now

Pick this pack up today for an  investment of only $11.99USD . Click the button below to Buy Now!

You must log in and be a buyer of this download to submit a review.

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

Related Items

M Sound Words – M MM MB MN | Phoneme /m/ Color by Code Phonics Activities

Help your students master M sound words with the Phoneme /m/ Color By Code resource! 20 color-by-code sheets with 4 sets of words to practice.

V Sound Phonics Homework – V VV VE | Phonics Intervention Worksheets and Games

Help your students master the v sound! Engaging worksheets aligning with Science of Reading. Build literacy skills with flexible and fun activities.

Get Email Updates

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive regular teaching tips and updates & get instant access to the free print and go phonics homework PDF:

Sign up now!

Pin It on Pinterest

All Formats

Resource types, all resource types.

• Rating Count
• Price (Ascending)
• Price (Descending)
• Most Recent

Free physical education unit plans

Complete Kindergarten - Grade 2 PE Games - Elementary physical education lessons

PE Unit Plan Bundle | Grade 2, 3, 4 or 5

PE Unit Plans Bundle | KG1, KG2 or Grade 1

MindUp Lesson 1: How Our Brains Work (social-emotional, mental health)

• Google Slides™

Unit Plan - Health and Physical Education - Everybody Can Dance

National Nutrition Week. Food pyramid poster. FREEBIE

Physical Education Lesson Plan Template

New Alberta Curriculum - Grade 6 Health and Wellness - Conflict Resolution Unit

Teaching Sports: BASKETBALL UNIT

• Word Document File

No Prep PE: Editable Digital PE Lesson Plan Template FREE

• Google Drive™ folder

Teaching Sports: SOCCER UNIT

PE Scope and Sequence Template

• Google Sheets™
• Excel Spreadsheets

Ladder Tournaments - a fun way to do physical education units

Health - Mental Health Unit, Lessons, Assessment & Worksheets (5 & 6)

2023-2024 P.E. Long Range Plans

Team Handball Unit

PE Curriculum Ideas - Kindergarten

No Prep Personal Fitness: Crossfit Unit Lesson Plan Unit Middle & High School PE

Striking With Implements | Balloons and Paddles | Free Lesson Plan for PE Class

Cooperative Games

Soccer UNIT PLAN

Physical Education Blank Slides for Lesson Planning

Volleyball Unit Plans for Elementary/Jr.High

Physical Education & Daily Physical Activity: Warm up & Indoor Recess Rescue Kit

Physical Education Fitness Assessment

• Google Docs™

Introduction to Pickleball for Elementary Ages: A Five Day Module

Preschool Healthy Living/Nutrition Curriculum

• We're hiring
• Help & FAQ
• Privacy policy
• Student privacy
• Terms of service
• Tell us what you think

By signing up, you agree to our privacy policy .

Sign Up for our FREE Newsletter!

• Lesson Plans
• Lesson Templates
• Certificates
• Find Grants
• Fundraising

Search for Resources

You are here

Elementary school physical education lesson plan template - pdf.

Free Elementary School Physical Education Lesson Plan Template - PDF format for classroom use.

Copyright © 2001 - 2024 TeacherPlanet.com ®. All rights reserved. Privacy Statement and Disclaimer Notice

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter and receive

top education news, lesson ideas, teaching tips, and more!

No thanks, I don't need to stay current on what works in education!

DeWitt school reverses course, cancels optional first-grade lesson on pronouns

DEWITT — The school district's plan to offer an optional class for some first graders at Schavey Road Elementary School on the use of pronouns by individuals drew backlash, enough that by Friday the district had reversed course and canceled the plan announced to parents in an April 11 letter.

The lesson, planned for sometime in the next few weeks, was intended to introduce students in one classroom to they/them pronouns, which are used by those who don't identify with gendered pronouns he/him or she/her. The class was intended to read "They, She, He, Me: Free to Be!" by Matthew Sg and Maya Christina Gonzalez, and then talk about the themes in the book, including pronoun use and genders outside the mainstream binary.

The optional lesson has drawn the ire of some parents, a state representative and several social media conservative groups. School officials, however, defended the lesson as age-appropriate and pointed out it's optional.

DeWitt Public Schools Superintendent Shanna Spickard on Friday released a statement explaining her decision to cancel the plan.

She said since the optional class was announced to parents "several of our hard-working school staff members have received inappropriate, angry, and threatening phone calls, emails, and social media messages. Some staff members have had their personal information, including information regarding their families and children, placed online to harass and intimidate them, a cyberbullying practice called 'doxing.' While the vast majority of these inappropriate communications have originated outside of our community, several staff members have expressed feeling anxious, stressed, and even afraid to go to school."

Spickard said the school has had increased police and administrative presence since the backlash.

The first grade class was going to read the book, practice using "they/them" pronouns and learn what to do if they accidentally get someone's pronouns wrong. The students were also to discuss why it's wrong to purposely change someone's pronouns, officials said in the April 11 letter to parents.

The author's publisher, Reflection Press , describes the book — intended for children age 6-9 — as "a playful narrative about pronouns for kids," with discussion prompts for both children and adults. The book "shows many gender presentations under each pronoun and invites even more."

In the letter to families who have students in the classroom, Spickard and Principal Liz Crouch introduced the lesson and provided information for parents who wanted to opt their child out of the lessons. The letter said parents had until April 18 to ask to review the lesson or opt their child out of the lesson.

Neither Spickard nor Crouch returned messages seeking comment Friday morning.

State Rep. Steve Carra, R-Three Rivers, criticized the lesson in a Facebook post . Carra's post received more than 300 comments and was shared nearly 500 times.

"Hire me to teach the kids," Carra said in the post. "'Little Jack, you’re a boy even if you pretend to be a girl. Other people shouldn’t be forced to pretend along with you. Your pronouns are he/him.' Great, now back to reading, writing, and arithmetic…"

Anti-LGBTQ social media posters who oppose such topics being discussed in schools have railed against the lesson on X.

Libs of Tiktok, a far-right and anti-LGBTQ social media account, posted a clip of WILX 10's interview with a parent who opposed the lesson. Moms for Liberty, another far-right and anti-LGBTQ social media account, shared the same clip. The TV segment used did not explain the lesson was optional.

Social media posts opposing the lesson also did not say the class was optional or that it would only be taught in one classroom.

On April 17, Spickard addressed the backlash against the lesson in a Facebook post .

"The purpose is to promote greater understanding, compassion, and kindness regarding gender identity and the use of pronouns," Spickard said in the post. "The mini-lesson is not designed to challenge, persuade, or alter family beliefs. Instead, it aims to promote a safe and respectful learning environment where all our students feel valued.

"Again, this is an optional session and 100% voluntary and is only being offered to students in one first grade classroom in response to concerns brought to our attention, not as part of our general curriculum," Spickard wrote. She did not elaborate on what concerns were raised that prompted the lesson.

District officials have not said whether any parents decided to opt their children out of the lesson. Schavey is the only school in the district that has first grade classes.

In Friday's statement, Spickard apologized to community members who she said had been looking forward to the lesson, and said it was a decision she did not make lightly.

"[W]ith our School Board, administrative leadership team, and school employees, I have made the decision to cancel the mini-lesson to help ensure the safety of our entire school community and maintain our focus on providing a world-class education to all learners," Spickard said.

Contact Sarah Atwood at [email protected] .  Follow her on X, @sarahmatwood .

'Afraid to go to school': Michigan school cancels pronoun lesson after online onslaught

Citing stress and fear, dewitt schools superintendent shanna spickard says the optional mini-lesson for 1st-graders at schavey road elementary school has been canceled.

A public school in Michigan is canceling its plans to teach an optional mini-lesson about pronouns to a class of elementary students after staff have become the target of online harassment.

Superintendent Shanna Spickard of DeWitt Public Schools on Friday  apologized to those who welcomed the lesson planned for first-graders at Schavey Road Elementary School and said the decision to cancel was not made lightly. But as a result of online backlash, she added that multiple staff members are "afraid to go to school."

The backlash against the lesson plan began last week and has since gone viral. The school, which is just north of the state capital of Lansing in DeWitt, has had increased police and administrative presence, according to the school district.

Far-right and anti-LGBTQ social media group, Libs of Tiktok, and the conservative Moms for Liberty both posted a clip of an interview that location station WILX-TV did with a parent opposed to the lesson. The station failed to include that the lesson was optional.

The blowback has since exploded.

School district responds to backlash

Spickard said in a Facebook post that staff members had received inappropriate and threatening calls, emails and messages on social media. Some staff have even been doxed with personal information about their families and children shared online as a way to harass and intimidate the instructors.

"While the vast majority of these inappropriate communications have originated outside of our community, several staff members have expressed feeling anxious, stressed, and even afraid to go to school. This is unacceptable," Spickard said. "We are in contact with local law enforcement regarding these communications and have increased both police and administrative presence as precautionary measures."

You can read the full statement below:

State Rep. Steve Carra, a Three Rivers Republican,  criticized the lesson in a Facebook post . Carra's post received hundreds of comments and shares.

"Hire me to teach the kids," Carra said in the post. "'Little Jack, you’re a boy even if you pretend to be a girl. Other people shouldn’t be forced to pretend along with you. Your pronouns are he/him.' Great, now back to reading, writing, and arithmetic…"

What did the lesson plan include?

The optional lesson would have introduced students in one classroom to they/them pronouns, which are used by those who don't identify with gendered pronouns he/him or she/her. The class was planning to read "They, She, He, Me: Free to Be!" by Matthew Sg and Maya Christina Gonzalez, and discuss themes in the book, including pronoun use and genders outside the mainstream binary.

The school district told community members that the lesson was an effort to help all students feel understood and included.

Spickard previously said in a statement that the "lesson is to emphasize the importance of inclusivity, which is a core value of the district.

"The mini-lesson is not designed to challenge or alter family beliefs," she continued. "Instead, it aims to ensure a safe and respectful learning environment.”

Which states require LGBTQ topics in their public school curriculums?

Resources for those interested in teaching about gender identity are becoming more accessible. At least six states and Washington, D.C. require curriculums to include LGBTQ topics, the Washington Post reported , including Nevada, Colorado, Oregon, California, Illinois and New Jersey.

Washington is the most recent state to pass legislation requiring LGBTQ history to be taught in all public schools beginning 2025.

As of 2022, the American Bar Association reported that 11 states have laws ensuring sex education curriculum includes information affirming LGBTQ identities. The association reported that five states and Washington, D.C. mandate that education about "LGBTQ sexual health and relationships" are neutral.

Another six states require that "LGBTQ-inclusive health education curricula" foster positive relationships. The curriculum is required in California, Colorado, Oregon, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Washington.

Contributing: Lansing State Journal

• Browse By Category
• View ALL Lessons
• Submit Your Idea
• Shop Lesson Books
• Search our Lessons
• Browse All Assessments
• New Assessments
• Paper & Pencil Assessments
• Alternative Assessments
• Student Assessments
• View Kids Work
• Submit Your Ideas
• Browse All Best Practices
• New Best Practices
• How BPs Work
• Most Popular
• Alphabetical
• Submit Your Best Practice
• Browse All Prof. Dev.
• Online PD Courses
• Onsite Workshops
• Hall of Shame
• Becoming a PE Teacher
• PE Articles
• Defending PE
• Substitute Guidelines
• Online Classes
• PE Research
• Browse All Boards
• Board of the Week
• Submit Your Bulletin Board
• Browse All Class Mngt
• Lesson Ideas
• New Teacher Tips
• Reducing Off-Task Behavior
• Browse All Videos
• Find Grants
• Kids Quote of the Week
• Weekly Activities
• Advertise on PEC
• FREE Newsletter

PE Central has partnered with S&S Discount Sports to provide a full range of sports and PE products for your program.

Get Free Shipping plus 15% OFF on orders over $59! Use offer code B4260. Shop Now!

• Shop Online Courses:
• Classroom Management
• Integrating Literacy & Math
• Grad Credit
• All PE Courses

• Cooperative Fitness Challenge
• Cooperative Skills Challenge
• Log It (Activity Tracker)

• Instant Activities
• Grades 9-12
• Dance of the Month
• Special Events Menu
• Cues/Performance Tips
• College Lessons
• Search All Lessons

• Paper & Pencil Assessments
• Shop Assessment

• How BP's Work

• Shop Bulletin Board Books

• Apps for PE Main Menu
• Submit Your App
• Ask our App Expert
• Active Gaming

• What is Adapted PE
• Ask Our Expert
• Adapting Activities
• IEP Information
• Adapted Web Sites
• Shop Adapted Store

• PreK Lesson Ideas
• PreK Videos
• Homemade PreK PE Equip
• Shop PreK Books

• Shop Class Mngt Products

• Search Jobs
• Interview Questions
• Interview Tips
• Portfolio Development

• Becoming PE Teacher
• Fundraising/Grants

• New Products
• T-Shirts/Accessories
• Class Management
• Middle School
• High School
• Curriculums
• Limited Space

• Search Our Lessons

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter and receive

physical education lesson ideas, assessment tips and more!

Your browser does not support iframes.

No thanks, I don't need to stay current on what works in physical education.

PE Central® Copyright © 1996-2020 All Rights Reserved

PE Central ® 2516 Blossom Trl W Blacksburg, VA 24060 E-mail : [email protected] Phone : 540-953-1043 Fax : 540-301-0112

Copyright © 1996-2016 PE Central® www.pecentral.org All Rights Reserved Web Debut : 08/26/1996

• Study Guides
• Homework Questions

CIEP KA 3 Elementary Education Lesson Planning Unit RUBRICHealth and Physical EducationOctober31

• Electrical Engineering