Square scooter

A Square Scooter or Gym scooter is a square plank made from plastic or wood which is attached to four swivel casters at the corners. It is primarily used in American Physical Education classes, particularly elementary or middle school. They came into great popularity across the United States in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

The scooter is ridden simply by sitting on it and using one's legs to pull or push it in any given direction. Some models feature hand guards on the side of the board, where it is often held. These scooters are used for a variety of games and activity, including variations on dodgeball and soccer.

In March 2011, the National Gym Scooter Derby Association, or the NGSDA, was formed. This brought new life to the gym scooter. In a regulation NGSDA match, 12-24 participants must propel themselves across the track by pushing off others. 3-6 teams consisting of 4 people each are involved, and the first team with one member to complete the designated amount of laps wins. At no time my any participant touch the floor with any part of their body. If this does occur, that person is out, meaning they must stop where they are and not move for the duration of the game. While pushing and shoving is encouraged, striking is illegal and will result in the offender being out. While NGSDA games are currently only played in areas of Michigan, gym scooter derby is expanding quickly.

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