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How to Use BoardGains to Build Teamwork and Competition in Your Classes

How to Use BoardGains to Build Teamwork and Competition in Your Classes

Bringing energy and excitement to fitness sessions can be a challenge—especially when trying to keep students or clients engaged week after week. That’s where BoardGains comes in. Designed to transform ordinary workouts into a competitive and social experience, this fitness board game is the ultimate tool for personal trainers, PE teachers, and group fitness instructors looking to boost teamwork and motivation in their classes. Whether you’re training athletes, coaching a PE class, or leading a bootcamp, here’s a complete guide to integrating BoardGains into your sessions for maximum fun and results! 🎲💪🔥


1. What is BoardGains? 🎲

BoardGains is a fitness board game that turns traditional workouts into an engaging, bootcamp-style challenge. The game uses a board with different exercise squares, dice, and game pieces. Players roll the dice, move their piece, and complete the exercises they land on. The goal? Be the first to hit a set number of laps—or "gains"—to win!

Key Features:

  • Bodyweight Exercises Only: No equipment needed, making it adaptable for any setting.
  • Multiple Versions: The Starter Edition for beginners and the Pro Edition for advanced players.
  • Team Play: Supports both solo and team formats, allowing for flexible group sizes.
  • Portable: Easy to bring to gyms, parks, and classrooms.

Pro Tip: Kick off your class with a quick explanation of the rules to get everyone excited and on the same page.


2. Building Teamwork with BoardGains 🤝

BoardGains isn’t just about competition—it’s about collaboration. Here’s how to use it to enhance teamwork:

  • Team Play Mode: Divide the class into teams (2-5 players per team) and have them work together to complete exercises. Teams can strategize who performs which moves based on strengths.
  • Relay Challenges: Set up relay-style rounds where one team member rolls the dice and completes an exercise before tagging the next.
  • Assist and Support: Encourage teammates to cheer each other on during challenging exercises to build camaraderie.

Sample Team Challenge:

  • Warm-Up: 5-minute group stretch.
  • Main Game: Teams compete to complete 3 laps of BoardGains first.
  • Cooldown: Group discussion on what strategies worked best.

Pro Tip: Use a whiteboard to track team progress and keep the energy high.


3. Sparking Healthy Competition 🏆

A little competition can go a long way in keeping students motivated. Here’s how to channel that energy with BoardGains:

  • Battle Mode: Pit two teams against each other in a time-based competition—who can complete the most laps in 20 minutes?
  • Challenge Cards: Include bonus cards that add surprise elements like extra reps or skipping spaces to keep players on their toes.
  • Leaderboard: Create a class leaderboard to track wins and highlight top performers.

Pro Tip: Use fitness-themed prizes (like water bottles or protein bars) for the winning team to add an extra incentive.


4. Customizing BoardGains for Different Fitness Levels 🏋️‍♂️

One of the best parts about BoardGains is its versatility. Here’s how to tailor it for different fitness levels:

  • For Beginners: Use the Starter Edition, which includes simpler exercises and fewer reps.
  • For Advanced Players: Upgrade to the Pro Edition with 20 diverse exercises and higher rep counts.
  • Adaptive Options: Swap certain exercises for low-impact alternatives if needed (e.g., knee push-ups instead of standard push-ups).

Pro Tip: Include a “modification station” where players can choose an easier version of an exercise if needed.


5. Integrating BoardGains into PE Classes 🏫

For PE teachers, BoardGains is a great way to get students moving while reinforcing teamwork and strategy:

  • Fitness Circuits: Set up BoardGains as one of several fitness stations. Students rotate between the game and other activities like jump rope or planks.
  • Goal-Based Play: Align the game with specific fitness goals, like endurance or upper-body strength.
  • Cross-Curricular Learning: Incorporate math by having students calculate scores, or leadership skills by assigning team captains.

Sample PE Class Plan:

  • Warm-Up: Dynamic stretches.
  • Main Activity: 20-minute BoardGains session in teams.
  • Cool Down: Reflection on what they learned about teamwork and strategy.

Pro Tip: Use a whistle to keep transitions between rounds smooth and efficient.


6. BoardGains for Personal Trainers: Boost Client Retention 💼

Personal trainers can use BoardGains to add variety and excitement to small group sessions:

  • Small Group Challenges: Organize mini-tournaments among your clients to keep them coming back.
  • Goal Tracking: Use the lap system to track progress week-by-week.
  • Motivation Boost: The game format shifts focus from “just exercise” to having fun while getting fit.

Pro Tip: Offer a BoardGains session as a free trial to attract new clients.


7. Tips for a Successful BoardGains Session 🛠️

  1. Explain the Rules: Start with a quick demo of how to roll, move, and complete exercises.
  2. Keep It Moving: Limit rest periods between rounds to maintain intensity.
  3. Encourage Strategy: Suggest tactics like saving energy on certain exercises to outlast competitors.
  4. Music Matters: Play upbeat tracks to keep energy levels high.

Pro Tip: Finish each session with a group photo to boost team spirit and promote on social media.


FAQs: Using BoardGains in Classes

1. How many players can play BoardGains at once?

  • The Starter Edition supports 1-6 players, while the Pro Edition accommodates 1-10 players or teams.

2. Can I modify exercises in BoardGains?

  • Absolutely! Swap exercises based on fitness levels or equipment availability.

3. How long does a typical BoardGains session last?

  • A full game usually takes 30-45 minutes, making it perfect for class or session slots.

4. Is BoardGains suitable for beginners?

  • Yes! The Starter Edition is designed with simpler exercises and fewer reps for newcomers.

5. How does BoardGains build teamwork?

  • Through team play modes, relay challenges, and cooperative goals that require communication and strategy.

Integrating BoardGains into your classes is an easy way to make fitness fun, competitive, and team-oriented. With flexible formats and a focus on both teamwork and competition, it’s the ultimate tool for trainers and teachers looking to level up their sessions. Ready to roll the dice and start making gains?

Reading next

The Science of Play-Based Learning in Physical Education
Why Movement is the Best Medicine for Beating Stress and Overwhelm

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