Gopher Tinikling Set
Tinikling is a traditional folk dance from the Philippines, performed by jumping over poles while dancing to music.
Exciting Activities
Tinikling involves two people tapping and sliding poles on the ground and against each other in coordination with one or more dancers who step over and in between the moving poles. Alternating between dancer and “clinker" doubles the fun for students with each new Tinikling style. Tinikling promotes cardiovascular and muscle endurance, as well as coordination and agility for students of all ages. Dances develop movement coordination with every step, while clinkers practice teamwork and communication, creating a team building atmosphere with every routine
Superior Design
Sturdy ABS-plastic jump poles and slide boards feature soft vinyl end caps for safety and nonslip anchoring, making this set extremely durable and easy to use indoors or out. Three connecting sections prevent bowing in the poles and cross bars. Made with convenient pushpins, this set is easy to assemble and disassemble, yet remains durably intact during activities. When not in use, simply disassemble for convenient, compact storage.
DVD features basic techniques, activities, and three routines. CD includes three practice drum rhythms, seven songs with drum accents, and a guide. Different songs vary the tempo of the game to create a range of challenges and excitement.
Set includes 6 pole sections (32"L) and 2 slide boards (27"L). Instructional Guide and Christy Lane's Tinikling Today in the USA DVD/CD (45 min., 2006) sold separately.
Step, Slide, and Shine: Movement Mastery with the Gopher Tinikling Set!
The Gopher Tinikling Set is a modern, safe, and engaging take on the traditional Filipino dance activity, designed to teach rhythm, timing, coordination, and teamwork. Unlike wooden poles, this set includes lightweight, plastic poles that are 6' or 8' long and connect to durable bases with bungee cords, eliminating the need for hand-holding or pole slamming. The biggest benefit of this set is its safety and ease of use—it creates the traditional tinikling experience with a lower risk of injury, making it ideal for younger students and large class management. With this set, students build locomotor, rhythmic, and body control skills while engaging in cultural movement exploration. Here are 15 creative ways to use the Gopher Tinikling Set in your PE class!
1. Tinikling Timing Trail: Students learn basic tinikling steps (in-in, out-out) and practice them in rhythm. Builds timing, coordination, and hopping.
2. Rhythm Relay Run: In teams, students complete 10 successful patterns in the poles, then sprint to tag the next group. Enhances jumping and agility.
3. Step ‘n’ Switch Challenge: After every 5 repetitions, students rotate positions—dancer becomes tapper. Reinforces role switching and pattern recognition.
4. Musical Motion Mode: Change tempo by playing music at different speeds. Students adjust their footwork accordingly. Teaches rhythm and auditory response.
5. Hop Over Hustle: Increase pole speed slowly until students hop instead of step. Improves power and reaction time.
6. Freeze Beat Boogie: When the music stops, students must freeze mid-move without touching the poles. Practices balance and body control.
7. Tapper Tempo Trainer: Tappers try different rhythms (e.g., 1-2-1, 1-2-3) for dancers to follow. Builds cognitive and rhythmic skills.
8. Solo Step Showdown: Students go one at a time to showcase their best Tinikling sequence. Encourages confidence and coordination.
9. Mirror Me Movements: Partners mirror each other’s movements inside the poles. Enhances partner coordination.
10. Double Trouble Tinikling: Add a second set of poles in parallel. Students move through both in sequence. Builds agility and extended coordination.
11. Story Step Stomp: Create a themed story (e.g., escaping lava rocks), and students must step in and out accordingly. Promotes creative movement.
12. Backward Boogie Hop: Challenge students to perform the tinikling steps backwards. Builds reverse movement skills.
13. Pole Puzzle Path: Add markers or cones students must reach after each successful sequence. Combines tiniking with locomotor travel.
14. Follow-the-Leader Footwork: One student creates a new rhythm or move; others must copy it. Enhances leadership and mimicry.
15. Dance Duel Delight: Two students face off with creative tinikling footwork—class votes for most original. Encourages expression, coordination, and fun.