🏃

Lesson 4 - Breathing Techniques for Running

Power, Endurance & Teamwork

•

Year 2

•

Athletics

•

49 min

Big Question

How can we use our breathing to help us run better and for longer?

Learning Objectives

To develop stamina through consistent running activity
To learn and apply breathing techniques for improved running performance
To work effectively as a team whilst maintaining individual effort

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate basic breathing control during running activities
Students will participate in sustained running activities as part of a team
Students will understand the connection between breathing and running performance

Equipment & Resources Required

Bibs

15-20

Ready for immediate distribution

Alternative: Strips of fabric, playground bands

Jigsaw Puzzles

6 sets

Pre-cut and numbered on reverse, pieces scattered around area

Alternative: Picture cards, matching games

Score Sheets

Numbered 1-6 for team identification

Alternative: Large worksheets, team mats

Cones

12-16

Mark rectangular running area

Alternative: Natural boundaries, painted lines

Numbered Papers

To secure jigsaw collection areas

Alternative: Small stones, bean bags

Key Vocabulary

Inhale

Breathing air into your lungs

Exhale

Breathing air out of your lungs

Rhythm

A regular pattern of breathing that matches your steps

Stamina

The ability to keep going during physical activity

Technique

The proper way of doing something

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running skills
Understanding of team work
Simple movement patterns

Current Skills

Rhythmic breathing during exercise
Sustained running with breathing control
Team cooperation during physical activity

Next Steps

Advanced breathing patterns
Running technique refinement
Pacing strategies

Milestone Indicators

Smooth inhale and exhale pattern

Reduced breathlessness during activity

Improved running endurance

Key Teaching Points

Breathing technique is more important than running speed
Team cooperation enhances individual performance
Progressive challenge builds confidence and stamina
Connect breathing technique to real-life applications
Celebrate effort and improvement over absolute performance
Use positive reinforcement to maintain engagement
Monitor fatigue levels and adjust accordingly

Common Misconceptions

Students thinking they must breathe the pattern during sprinting
Believing faster running is always better than controlled running
Thinking breathing technique is only for PE lessons
Assuming all students will master technique immediately
Expecting breathing pattern to be natural without practice

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear visual boundaries, regular positive reinforcement, movement breaks

dyspraxia

Simplified breathing pattern initially, extra practice time, visual aids for sequence memory

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet spaces available, consistent routines and expectations

visual impairment

Use verbal cues for breathing technique, tactile boundaries, buddy system for navigation

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of breathing, hand signals for instructions, written activity cards

physical disability

Adapted breathing exercises from seated position, modified running distances, alternative movement patterns

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following instructions, describing experiences, using vocabulary related to movement and breathing

Maths

Counting in patterns (3-2 breathing rhythm), timing activities, measuring distances around running circuit

Science

Understanding body systems, effects of exercise on breathing and heart rate, healthy lifestyle choices

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, perseverance and resilience, personal goal setting

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central location during explanation phases, mobile during activities to provide individual support

Observation Focus

Breathing technique accuracy, team cooperation, effort levels, signs of fatigue

Intervention Points

Step in if students showing signs of overexertion, struggling with breathing technique, or team conflicts arising

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Exaggerate breathing movements for visibility, show clear difference between jogging and sprinting pace, model positive teamwork

Verbal Cues

•'In-two-three, out-two'
•'Stay together as a team'
•'Remember your breathing during the jog sections'
•'Well done, I can see you using the technique!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor space minimum 30m x 20m or sports hall, clear of obstacles

Surface Check

Even surface free from holes, wet patches, or debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Jigsaw pieces checked for sharp edges
•Bibs/bands in good condition
•Cones stable and visible
•Paper weights secure but not hazardous

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions during tag games
•Slips and falls on running surface
•Overexertion during running activities
•Students becoming breathless or dizzy

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries established and maintained
•Appropriate warm-up before intensive activities
•Regular monitoring of student fatigue levels
•Emphasis on technique over speed
•Adequate rest periods between running activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all running areas
•Monitor breathing technique practice for dizziness
•Watch for signs of overexertion
•Ensure team activities remain cooperative

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess breathing difficulties, provide appropriate support, seek medical assistance if required