Complete a race
Set up a simple backyard obstacle race with cones, rope, and timers; plan the course, practice moves, and complete the race while tracking times.
Step-by-step guide to set up and complete a backyard obstacle race
Constructed Responses & the RACE Writing Strategy
Step 1
Pick a flat safe spot in your backyard to build the obstacle race.
Step 2
Use chalk or masking tape to draw and label a Start line and a Finish line.
Step 3
Place cones in a zigzag pattern to make a slalom section.
Step 4
Lay a rope flat on the ground to make a balance beam section.
Step 5
Arrange pillows or towels in a line so you can jump or step between them.
Step 6
Walk through the whole course slowly to check that everything is safe and steady.
Step 7
Reset your stopwatch or timer to zero so it is ready to use.
Step 8
Practice the entire course at a slow pace one time to remember each obstacle.
Step 9
Ask an adult to hold the timer and watch while you get ready to run.
Step 10
Run the whole course as fast as you can when the adult starts the timer.
Step 11
Write down the time on your paper after the run finishes.
Step 12
Share your finished obstacle race and your best time on DIY.org
Help!?
Can I use something else if I don’t have cones, chalk, or a stopwatch?
Yes—replace cones with plastic bottles or stuffed animals for the zigzag slalom, use masking tape on the ground instead of chalk for the Start and Finish lines, and time runs with a phone timer if you don't have a stopwatch.
What if the rope keeps sliding or the pillows move when I run the course?
If the rope slides or pillows shift during the 'Lay a rope flat' or 'Arrange pillows or towels' steps, secure the rope with small pieces of tape or a long towel underneath and use heavier pillows or place them on grass/non-slip mat so they stay steady.
How can I make the obstacle race easier for toddlers or harder for older kids?
For toddlers, shorten the course, move cones closer together and have an adult walk beside them during the 'Practice the entire course' step, while for older kids increase cone spacing, add extra jumps between pillows, and use the stopwatch for multiple timed rounds to raise the challenge.
How can we make the race more fun or show it off after finishing?
Decorate the Start and Finish with colorful chalk, add a themed obstacle like crawling under the rope, create homemade medals to award after you 'Write down the time on your paper', and take a photo or video to share your finished obstacle race and best time on DIY.org.
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Facts about backyard obstacle courses and kids' fitness
🕐 Even a half-second can change a race — stopwatches help kids spot tiny improvements.
🏁 Obstacle races are worldwide — big events like Spartan Race and Tough Mudder show adults love them too!
🧗♀️ Practicing over cones and ropes builds balance, coordination, and confidence in just a few sessions.
🪢 Rope activities (climbing, swinging, jumping) have been used in games and training for centuries.
📏 Tracking times and making a simple chart turns practice into a fun progress game for kids.
How do I set up a simple backyard obstacle race for my child and track their times?
What materials do I need to create a backyard obstacle race with cones, rope, and timers?
What ages is a backyard obstacle race suitable for?
What are the benefits and safety tips for running a backyard obstacle race?
