Lesson 5 - Pike Position Control
Core Strength Sequences
•Year 2
•Gymnastics
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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
Place end-to-end to create jumping lanes
Alternative: Large towels or blankets for home practice
Position for safe pike jump practice with mats underneath
Alternative: Sturdy low boxes or platforms (20-30cm height)
For marking landing distances
Alternative: Small soft toys or fabric squares
To mark start and finish lines for jumping activities
Alternative: Plastic bottles or markers
For measuring jump distances in extension activities
Alternative: Metre rulers or chalk marks on floor
Key Vocabulary
A gymnastics shape where the body folds at the hips with straight legs and arms reaching towards the feet
A jump for maximum horizontal distance using two-foot take-off and landing
Beginning a jump by pushing off with both feet simultaneously for maximum power
Bending the knees upon landing to safely manage the force and maintain balance
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
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