Fundamental Body Shapes and Movement Vocabulary for Young Gymnasts
•Year 1
•Gymnastics
•Arranged in three zones for apparatus work
Alternative: Yoga mats or carpet squares
Placed in narrow zone at safe height
Alternative: Low balance beams or PE benches
Maximum height 60cm for Year 1 safety
Alternative: Sturdy PE boxes or platforms
Clear, visual labels for each apparatus zone
Alternative: Laminated cards or cones with labels
For background music during movement exploration
Alternative: Phone or tablet with speaker
Moving smoothly from one shape or movement to another
Moving with control, precision, pointed toes and fingers, and quiet landings
Body stretched out with arms and legs extended away from the body
Body stretched long and thin with arms and legs close together
Body rounded like a ball with knees and arms tucked in
Gymnastics equipment like mats, benches, and low boxes
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Following instructions, learning new vocabulary (transition, apparatus, champion), describing movements and feelings
Counting during transitions, recognising and creating patterns in movement sequences, understanding spatial concepts like wide and narrow
Exploring forces and movement, understanding how the body moves and bends, investigating balance and stability on apparatus
Building confidence and self-esteem, making good choices, showing respect for others and equipment
Move constantly during apparatus work to supervise all areas, stand where you can see all students during demonstrations
Watch for smooth transitions, champion qualities (pointed fingers/toes, control), safe apparatus use, and zone-appropriate movements
Step in when students struggle with transitions, provide individual guidance for apparatus use, correct unsafe behaviour immediately
Always demonstrate at slow speed for clarity, exaggerate champion qualities visibly, show transitions multiple times, connect verbal cues to visual demonstration
Large hall space minimum 15m x 10m with additional apparatus areas
Clean, dry, non-slip surface suitable for gymnastics
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide first aid if qualified, call for additional help if needed
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