Balance Beam

Lori Danko

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Balance Beam Lesson Plan

Students will define the concept of physical balance, demonstrate two basic balance exercises, and record their progress using a Balance Challenge Log.

Developing balance enhances coordination, prevents injuries, and builds body awareness—key skills for lifelong physical fitness. This Tier 1 lesson supports all learners by fostering self-confidence and healthy habits.

Audience

7th Grade Students

Time

20 minutes

Approach

Teach through discussion, demonstration, and guided practice with a challenge log.

Materials

Balance Challenge Log Worksheet, - Open Clear Floor Space, and - Stopwatch or Timer

Prep

Prepare Materials

10 minutes

Print enough copies of the Balance Challenge Log Worksheet for each student
Clear and mark an area in the classroom or gym for balance exercises
Review the Balance Beam Lesson Plan and MTSS Tier 1 strategies for universal support

Step 1

Introduction to Balance

5 minutes

Ask students what ‘balance’ means and where they’ve used it (sports, walking on uneven ground)
Explain why balance matters: coordination, injury prevention, posture
Connect to MTSS Tier 1 by highlighting inclusive benefits for all fitness levels

Step 2

Demonstration of Basic Exercises

5 minutes

Show ‘Single-Leg Stand’ and ‘Heel-to-Toe Walk’ with proper form
Emphasize posture: straight back, engaged core, focused gaze
Invite two volunteers to try each exercise while peers observe key points

Step 3

Guided Practice with Log

5 minutes

Distribute the Balance Challenge Log Worksheet
In pairs, students perform each exercise while one times with a stopwatch and the other records duration/observations
Circulate to offer corrective feedback and positive reinforcement

Step 4

Independent Reflection & Home Challenge

5 minutes

Students complete the reflection section on their worksheet: how they felt and areas to improve
Assign at-home practice: pick one exercise to try daily, record results in their log
Collect worksheets to assess understanding and plan follow-up support

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Worksheet

Balance Challenge Log Worksheet

Name: ______________________ Date: ______________________

1. What Is Physical Balance?

Define physical balance in your own words:

2. Basic Balance Exercises Instructions

a. Single-Leg Stand

Stand on one foot with your other foot bent at the knee.
Keep your back straight, core engaged, and gaze forward.
Record how long you can hold the position.

b. Heel-to-Toe Walk

Place the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the other foot.
Walk in a straight line, maintaining balance.
Count each step you take without stepping off the line.

Page 2: Balance Challenge Log & Reflection

3. Balance Challenge Log

Date	Exercise	Duration (seconds or steps)	Observations

4. Reflection

a. Which exercise showed the most improvement? Why?

b. What challenges did you face, and how can you address them?

5. At-Home Practice Challenge

Pick one balance exercise to practice each day this week. Write your daily plan below:

Good luck, and have fun improving your balance!