Lesson 4 - Lane Running and Race Techniques
Whole-Body Movement Confidence
•Reception
•Athletics
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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
Create lanes 1.5m wide, mark stations 20m apart
Alternative: Spots, markers, chalk lines
One per relay team of 4 children
Alternative: Bean bags, foam tubes, cardboard tubes
For setting up 20m distances accurately
Alternative: Pre-measured rope, pace counting
Key Vocabulary
A marked strip on the track where one runner must stay
Pushing your chest forward at the finish line to win by the smallest margin
A stick passed between relay runners
The technique and style of your running
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
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