Skydiver

One skipper goes in, hands held out. The next runs in and holds hands. A turner shouts "break", the pair let go of one hand and the third skipper joins the ring. How many can hold hands in the middle and still jump?

Long rope · Team skip
Black Award · Expert
Suitable for Years 5 to 62 turners, 3 or more7.5m long rope
skip-hop illustration of two children turning a long rope while three children jump in the middle

How it works

One skipper goes in, hands held out. The next runs in and holds hands. A turner shouts "break", the pair let go of one hand and the third skipper joins the ring. How many can hold hands in the middle and still jump?

Coaching notes for Skydiver

Step-by-step teaching, common faults and how to fix them, class set-up and video.

  • Teaching steps, the shape check and spot the fault
  • Video with slow motion
  • Class set-up, tips and a printable coaching card

Coaching notes and videos are part of the All-Access Skip Pass.

Where it fits

Learn firstCluster jump
This skillSkydiver
skip-hop Skipping Awards

Skydiver: Black Award

Black Award · Expert

Black Award: Expert

A related skill for the Black Award: one to include in lessons.

To pass, a pupil:

  • Performs 5 double unders (single bounces in between are fine)
  • Performs a full 360 degree turn
  • Performs a side swing cross on both sides
  • Leads a group routine including individual, partner and long rope moves
  • Keeps the pot boiling in Figure of Eight in a team of 6 to 8: 5 full figures of 8 each (10 jumps), with the whole team succeeding

In the scheme of work

This skill isn't in the scheme of work lessons yet. It's a great one for skipping clubs and playtimes.

What you need

7.5m long rope

For four or more skippers at once. skip-hop ropes are designed specifically for the skills shown on this site.

Shop ropes

SEND and inclusion

Make it work for everyone

Ideas for pupils with SEND, and for anyone who finds skydiver hard. Change one thing at a time.

What usually makes it hard: Running in and holding hands while jumping together.

  • PeopleStart with two holding hands.
  • CommunicationThe turner says “break” clearly, and the next pupil waits for it.
  • EquipmentA slower turn.

Seated or no-jump version. Turn one end and call “break”.

An adapted pass is still a pass on the Skipping Awards. Use your own judgement and each pupil’s care plan. More in SEND and inclusion at skip-hop. Pupil struggling to get started? Try Lee’s tips for pupils who are struggling to skip.