This is a very silly activity involving some people falling over and others laughing at people falling over, or not trying to not to fall over.
It could also be a good way to introduce some basic maths into the class and even and understanding of the ageing process.
First though, the rules.
The Rules
- Students work in pairs.
- One student times the second student with a stop watch (all smartphones have one)
- The second student balances on one leg and closes their eyes.
- When they fall over, grab for support or open their eyes, their attempt finished and the first student records and announces the time.Swap over.
The Results
Use this chart below to work out your biological age as opposed to your chronological age.
What’s your balance-based Bio-Age?
Balance Time Balance-Based Bio-Age
4 seconds 70 years
5 seconds 65 years
7 seconds 60 years
8 seconds 55 years
9 seconds 50 years
12 seconds 45 years
16 seconds 40 years
22 seconds 30-35 years
In practice
I tried this with a class of twelve 18 year olds. They loved it and were keen to find out who had the longest time – the record was 1 minute 40 seconds. And laughed at me with my paltry 18 seconds, even though I protested it had knocked decades off my real age.
I also used it for a second session in the same class for two of the late comers. I made them balance on one leg with their eyes closed in front of the class. This was greeted with much amusement.
Rating
Overall I would rate this as a great success. It’s physical, it’s fun and there is even a bit of learning in it. Suitable for all ages, though for really young children I would not worry them about age aspect.