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Lesson 5 - Pike Position Control

Core Strength Sequences

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Year 2

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Gymnastics

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57 min

Big Question

How can we use our body shape and power to jump further whilst landing safely?

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate distance jumping with control using broad jump technique
Accurately replicate pike position and incorporate into short sequences
Link previous learning to create smooth transitions between movements

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to perform controlled broad jumps with proper take-off and landing
Students will demonstrate pike position in various forms and during jumping
Students will create sequences linking pike shapes with jumping movements

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

6-8 mats

Place end-to-end to create jumping lanes

Alternative: Large towels or blankets for home practice

Gymnastics Benches

2-3 benches

Position for safe pike jump practice with mats underneath

Alternative: Sturdy low boxes or platforms (20-30cm height)

Balls

30 bean bags

For marking landing distances

Alternative: Small soft toys or fabric squares

Cones

10 cones

To mark start and finish lines for jumping activities

Alternative: Plastic bottles or markers

Measuring Tapes

2 measuring tapes

For measuring jump distances in extension activities

Alternative: Metre rulers or chalk marks on floor

Key Vocabulary

Pike position

A gymnastics shape where the body folds at the hips with straight legs and arms reaching towards the feet

Broad jump

A jump for maximum horizontal distance using two-foot take-off and landing

Two-foot take-off

Beginning a jump by pushing off with both feet simultaneously for maximum power

Absorb landing

Bending the knees upon landing to safely manage the force and maintain balance

Sequence

A series of connected movements performed smoothly one after another

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic jumping with two-foot take-off and landing
Understanding of body shapes in gymnastics
Following instructions for movement activities

Current Skills

Pike position in various orientations
Broad jumping for distance with control
Linking movements in short sequences

Next Steps

More complex gymnastics shapes (tuck, straddle)
Jumping sequences with apparatus
Partner and group sequence work

Milestone Indicators

Consistent two-foot take-off and landing

Clear pike shape demonstrated in air

Ability to measure and improve jump distance

Key Teaching Points

Pike position requires folding at hips with straight legs, not bending at knees or back
All jumps must use two-foot take-off and landing for safety and power
Arm swing is crucial for generating forward momentum in broad jumping
Landing technique with bent knees prevents injury and maintains control
Sequences require smooth transitions between movements without stopping
Distance improvement comes from technique refinement, not just effort
Safety awareness and personal space are essential during all jumping activities

Common Misconceptions

Pike means touching toes - actually about hip fold angle with straight legs
Jumping higher helps distance - forward direction and technique more important
Hard landings show power - soft controlled landings demonstrate skill
One foot take-off is easier - two feet provide more power and safety
Stretching should be painful - gentle stretching is more effective and safer

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Clear boundaries marked, frequent activity changes, specific roles in team challenges, movement breaks between explanations

dyspraxia

Extra demonstration time, simplified sequences initially, larger targets for jumping, additional practice time, supportive partner pairing

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual timetable of activities, quiet space available, consistent equipment setup, advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of pike shape, tactile guidance for positioning, consistent equipment placement, bright coloured mats for contrast

hearing impairment

Clear visual demonstrations, written instructions on board, visual signals for start/stop, partner buddy system for communication

physical disability

Modified pike positions seated or supported, adapted jumping heights, use of assistive equipment, focus on achievable movements

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring jump distances in centimetres, counting jumps, adding team scores, estimating distances

Science

Understanding forces in jumping, muscle groups used, gravity effects, body mechanics

Geography

Spatial awareness, directions, mapping movement patterns around the space

PSHE

Teamwork skills, encouraging others, dealing with challenge, perseverance and resilience

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position with clear view of all students, move around during activities to observe individual technique

Observation Focus

Pike position clarity, landing technique, spatial awareness, and cooperation during partner work

Intervention Points

Step in if unsafe jumping technique observed, poor equipment use, or lack of cooperation

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate techniques slowly first, then at normal speed. Use exaggerated movements for clarity. Show common mistakes and corrections.

Verbal Cues

•'Fold at your hips like a book closing!'
•'Land soft like a ninja!'
•'Two rockets (feet) take off together!'
•'Pike at the top of your jump!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor space minimum 15m x 12m, or outdoor area with appropriate surface

Surface Check

Non-slip surface, even and level, free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Mats positioned securely without gaps
•Benches stable and appropriate height (20-30cm)
•Bean bags clean and undamaged
•No sharp edges or corners on equipment

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls during jumping activities
•Collisions between students
•Poor landing technique causing injury
•Overexertion during distance challenges

Risk Mitigation

•Clear personal space boundaries established
•Progressive skill building from floor to equipment
•Emphasis on controlled landings throughout
•Adequate rest between intense activities
•Proper equipment setup and checking

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear view of all jumping areas
•Monitor technique especially during bench jumps
•Watch for fatigue during distance challenges
•Ensure safe equipment use and transitions

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, appropriate first aid response, clear area if needed