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Lesson 4 - Lane Running and Race Techniques

Whole-Body Movement Confidence

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Reception

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Athletics

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53 min

Big Question

How can we run our best race whilst staying in our lane and crossing the finish line like champions?

Learning Objectives

To run efficiently whilst maintaining lane discipline
To sustain running form during a complete race
To execute a proper finish line dip technique

Key Outcomes

Students will run confidently within marked lanes
Students will demonstrate consistent running form throughout races
Students will understand and attempt finish line dipping

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Create lanes 1.5m wide, mark stations 20m apart

Alternative: Spots, markers, chalk lines

Relay Baton

8-10

One per relay team of 4 children

Alternative: Bean bags, foam tubes, cardboard tubes

Measuring Tapes

For setting up 20m distances accurately

Alternative: Pre-measured rope, pace counting

Key Vocabulary

Lane

A marked strip on the track where one runner must stay

Dip

Pushing your chest forward at the finish line to win by the smallest margin

Baton

A stick passed between relay runners

Form

The technique and style of your running

Relay

A race where team members take turns running

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic running and jogging skills
Understanding of start and stop commands
Ability to follow simple movement instructions

Current Skills

Lane discipline and spatial awareness
Sustained running form and technique
Relay baton transfer skills
Finish line dipping technique

Next Steps

Competitive race strategies
Advanced relay changeover techniques
Introduction to starting blocks
Timing and pacing concepts

Milestone Indicators

Runs 20m without veering outside lane

Maintains arm action throughout race

Shows understanding of finish line tactics

Key Teaching Points

Lane discipline is essential for fair and safe racing
Running technique should be maintained throughout the entire race
Focus on personal performance rather than comparing to others
Relay success depends on safe and accurate baton transfers
Finish line dipping can make the difference in close races
Support and encourage teammates while competing
Self-assessment helps identify areas for improvement

Common Misconceptions

Faster always means better - emphasis should be on technique and effort
Looking at other runners helps performance - actually causes lane discipline problems
Baton can be thrown to next runner - must be hand-to-hand transfer
Dipping should be done far from finish line - timing is crucial for effectiveness
Only winning matters - focus should be on personal achievement and improvement

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Use shorter activity bursts, provide immediate feedback, offer leadership roles to maintain focus

dyspraxia

Simplify baton transfer technique, use larger lane boundaries, provide extra practice time for coordination skills

autism spectrum

Provide clear visual schedule of activities, offer quiet space for overwhelm, maintain consistent routine structure

visual impairment

Use bright coloured lane markers, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, assign sighted buddy for relay activities

hearing impairment

Use clear visual signals for gear changes, demonstrate all instructions, use hand signals for race starts

physical disability

Adapt to wheelchair racing in lanes, modified baton passing at seated level, adjust distances as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting during gear changes, measuring 20m distances, ordering finishing positions in races

Science

Understanding how muscles work during running, forces needed for dipping motion, speed and distance concepts

Geography

Directional language (forward, backward, sideways), spatial awareness in lanes, following pathways

PSHE

Personal achievement and goal setting, resilience when facing challenges, supporting others in teams

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around perimeter of activity area, positioning at corners for optimal sightlines

Observation Focus

Watch for lane discipline, running technique, safe relay transfers, and individual effort levels

Intervention Points

Step in for unsafe lane crossing, poor baton transfers, or any signs of distress

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Exaggerate proper technique for visibility, show common mistakes to avoid, model positive attitude

Verbal Cues

•'Run tall and proud!'
•'Eyes on your lane only!'
•'Gentle baton transfer!'
•'Dip like a champion!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m flat area with clear run-off zones

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Cones positioned to avoid collision risks
•Batons checked for cracks or sharp edges
•Lane markers secure and visible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during lane running
•Falls during relay changeovers
•Overexertion during sprint activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear lane boundaries with adequate spacing
•Practiced baton transfer technique before racing
•Ability grouping for sprint races to prevent unsafe gaps

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position at corner of area for maximum visibility
•Monitor baton transfer zones closely
•Watch for signs of fatigue or distress

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, seek additional help if needed