Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) by Shakira: Cardio Drumming Routine

Lessons · By Matt Barker (Digit the APE), Adapted Physical Education specialist

Published · Updated

Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) by Shakira: Cardio Drumming Routine

Lesson Plan: Cardio Drumming to "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" by Shakira Objective: To engage students in an energetic and culturally rich cardio drumming session set to Shakira's "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)." Materials Needed: Stability balls on buckets or chairs, drumsticks or similar items, and an audio system for playing "Waka Waka." […]

Lesson Plan: Cardio Drumming to “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” by Shakira

Objective: To engage students in an energetic and culturally rich cardio drumming session set to Shakira’s “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa).”

Materials Needed: Stability balls on buckets or chairs, drumsticks or similar items, and an audio system for playing “Waka Waka.”

Introduction (5 minutes): Introduce “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” by Shakira, discussing its global popularity and rhythmic appeal.

Setup (5 minutes): Arrange the classroom with drumming stations, ensuring each student has access to a stability ball and drumsticks.

Warm-Up (10 minutes): Begin with a warm-up using the following video, adapting as necessary for all students: https://youtu.be/H_3fCb6yzMM?si=WCijfl9H8exhEQVo

Drumming Technique (10 minutes): Teach basic drumming techniques, focusing on maintaining rhythm and proper form. Adapt these techniques for students with different abilities.

Learning the Routine (20 minutes): Break down the cardio drumming routine for “Waka Waka” into sections, teaching each part step by step.

Full Routine Practice (20 minutes): Practice the full routine in sync with the song, encouraging students to feel the beat and enjoy the music.

Cool Down (10 minutes): Conclude the session with a cool-down to relax the muscles and gradually reduce heart rate. Use this video for the cool-down: https://youtu.be/fEz1gVmsUwA

Feedback and Reflection (5 minutes): Open a discussion for students to share their experiences, thoughts, and feedback about the routine.

Conclusion (5 minutes): Celebrate the students’ participation and effort, highlighting the enjoyment of combining music, rhythm, and exercise. Encourage them to explore different songs and rhythms in their fitness journeys.