Looking for a simple athletics game that instantly boosts sprint reactions, body control, and class engagement? Red Light, Green Light (Traffic Cones) is a no-prep running game where one student controls the pace using a green cone (go) and a red cone (stop). The twist: the cone shown always overrides the words said, forcing students to read visual cues under pressure—perfect for PE sprint units, warm-ups, or a high-energy finish.
Grade Level & Standards
Athletics / Running • Reaction & Acceleration • Tag-style Elimination
S1: Sprint mechanics, acceleration, deceleration, balance, body control
S2: Decision-making, visual scanning, reaction timing, self-regulation
S4: Honesty, self-control, respectful competition, resilience
Learning Target (I can…)
- React quickly to a visual cue and accelerate with control.
Stop on balance (no extra steps) and hold a strong “freeze” position.
Stay focused under pressure and make smart decisions about when to push speed.
How to Play (Rules of the Game)
The Traffic Light controls play by raising one cone:
Green cone up = GO
Red cone up = STOP
The Traffic Light can say anything (“green light”, “red light”)—but the cone shown has priority over the words.
Players advance when it’s GO and must freeze immediately when it’s STOP.
If a player moves after STOP (feet shuffle, extra step, obvious wobble), they are reset: return to the start line and try again.
Winner: the first player to reach the finish line becomes the next Traffic Light.
Teacher tip: Make it clear that “movement” means continued motion after the stop cue, not minor natural balance adjustments—keep it fair and consistent.
Coaching Points (Athletics Focus)
- Go cue: strong forward lean, quick first 3 steps, drive arms “cheek to cheek”.
- Stop cue: lower hips slightly, chest tall, feet under body, “freeze like a statue”.
- Encourage eyes up: students should watch the cone, not trust the voice.
Variations (Use 1–2 only)
Reaction Sprint Focus: Make the distance shorter (10–15 m) and restart quickly—more reps, less waiting.
No Elimination, Just Resets: Best for big classes—everyone stays in the game but resets on mistakes.
Movement Challenge Freeze: On STOP, players must hold a set position (e.g., “single-leg balance” or “athletic stance”) for 3 seconds.
Sprint Technique Rule: On GO, players must sprint with “quiet feet” and strong arm drive—teacher gives 1 quick cue each round.
Two Finish Lines: Split the class; two mini-games reduce crowding and increase touches.
$9.99 $4.99
- +30 Activities
- Introductory
- Cooperation
- Competition
- Games