The Lower Elementary students participated in a gymnastics unit in which they experienced transfer of body weight through floor skills. Students experienced the following apparatus: gymnastic mats for an obstacle course, a balance beam, and vaulted springboard. They also participated in pyramid building and single balances. A human pyramid is a formation of three or more people in which two or more support a tier of higher people. For practical reasons, lighter people are often positioned higher while stronger/heavier people are located closer to the base.
Students also practiced jumping off a vaulted springboard. Vaulting in gymnastics requires coordination combining running, jumping and squatting. Students practiced jumping and landing with two feet onto the mats. The jumps practiced were: straight, straddle, and tuck. Students learned that strength, flexibility, and balance they gained from gymnastics will transfer easily to every other sport they may want to pursue. The skills learned will help them achieve success in other areas.