Rainbow Jump Bands
Softer and more flexible than standard poles and ropes, these elastic jump bands are less-intimidating for students as they focus on building skills during tinikling and jumping activities. Add movement to music classes by keeping students on beat with these stretchy bands. Heavy-duty elastic will hold up through years of use. A 9”L loop on each end lets users place it around their foot for anchoring. Bands are 7’L x 1”W. Available as a pair (color varies) or in a Rainbow Set of 6 with 1 of each color.
How to Use Jump Bands
Jump bands are versatile tools for developing coordination, rhythm, agility, and balance. This guide will walk you through the basics of setting up and using jump bands effectively in a variety of activities.
Set Up the Jump Bands: Begin by selecting a flat, open space where the bands can be laid out without obstacles. Each Rainbow® Jump Band has a 9” loop on both ends. Have two students (or secure the bands to stable objects) place the loops around their feet to anchor the bands in place. Ensure the bands are stretched taut, but not overly tight, allowing room for jumping.
Establish the Jumping Area: The space between the two bands forms the jumping area. Depending on the activity, the bands can either remain stationary or move in and out to increase the challenge. If moving, students should jump in and out to widen and close the gap in sync.
Basic Jumping: Have the student(s) practicing their jumps begin by standing outside of the bands. Instruct them to hop in and out of the band, starting with both feet together. Ensure they are landing softly on the balls of their feet, focusing on rhythm and controlled movement.
Add Rhythm or Music: To increase the challenge, incorporate music or a rhythm pattern. Students should jump in sync with the beat, practicing coordination and timing. Gradually increase the tempo of the music as they improve, or call out different jump patterns (e.g., "left foot in, right foot out").
Simple Rhythm Patterns:
- 2-Count In-Out: On beat 1, both players move the bands outward (away from each other). On beat 2, they bring the bands back together (in). The pattern is simple and steady: “Out, In, Out, In”—counting 1, 2, 1, 2. This is great for beginners as it creates a clear and consistent rhythm.
- 4-Count Out-Out-In-In: Players start with the bands together. On beat 1, they move the bands out. On beat 2, they maintain their position. On beat 3, they bring the band in, and on beat 4, they keep the bands in, returning to the starting position. The pattern is: “Out, Out, In, In”—counting 1, 2, 3, 4. This provides a bit more variety and challenges the jumper to adapt to slower and faster movements.
Advanced Movements: Once students are comfortable with basic jumps, introduce more complex movements, such as alternating feet, hopping sideways, or combining jumps with turns. You can also have students perform tinikling-style moves where they must time their jumps with the movement of the bands.
Vary the Height and Movement of the Bands: As students become more proficient, vary the height of the bands or move them faster to keep the activity engaging. Additionally, challenge students by changing the direction of their jumps (forward, backward, or laterally).
Storing the Bands: Once the activity is complete, carefully remove the bands from students' feet. Check the bands for any wear and tear, and store them in a cool, dry place to ensure their longevity. The Rainbow® Jump Bands are designed to be durable, but proper care will extend their use.
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively use jump bands to teach fundamental movement skills and make physical education more engaging for students of all ages.
Great Songs to Play with Jump Bands:
1. "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" – This classic song has a smooth, easy-to-follow rhythm that is perfect for younger students to practice basic jump band movements while enjoying a familiar and fun tune.
2. "Baby Shark" – A favorite among elementary students, this song has a repetitive beat that’s ideal for simple jumping patterns. Its playful nature encourages students to stay active while having fun.
3. "We Will Rock You" – The steady "stomp-stomp-clap" beat of this song is perfect for jump band exercises. Elementary students can easily follow the rhythm, jumping in sync with the beat while having fun with the iconic sound.
4. "ABC" – This upbeat, kid-friendly tune has a strong rhythm that helps students stay on beat while practicing their jump band skills. The lively tempo makes it a great choice for keeping younger students engaged and active.
5. "Happy" – The upbeat tempo and cheerful vibe of this song will keep young students excited and moving. Its simple, repetitive rhythm is ideal for jump band activities, helping students stay coordinated.