🏃

Lesson 2 - Developing Running for Speed

From Sprint Technique to Strategic Distance Running

•

Year 3

•

Athletics

•

45 min

Big Question

How can we use our whole body to run faster and more efficiently?

Learning Objectives

Continue to explore and develop running for speed techniques
Apply correct sprinting techniques focusing on head, arms, legs and feet
Understand the biomechanics that contribute to faster running

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved sprinting technique across all body parts
Students will understand how different body positions affect running speed
Students will be able to run with correct technique whilst staying in lanes

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

20-30

Mark out lanes and turning points around the area

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk lines

Stopwatch

1-2

For timing activities and Beat Bolt challenge

Alternative: Smartphone timer, counting to 10

Measuring Tapes

Mark 50m or 100m distances if possible

Alternative: Paced distances, playground markings

Whiteboards

For recording observations and technique points

Alternative: Paper, clipboards

Key Vocabulary

Sprinting

Running as fast as possible over a short distance

Pumping action

Moving arms backwards and forwards in rhythm with legs

High knees

Lifting knees up high towards chest when running

Balls of feet

The front part of your foot behind your toes

Lane discipline

Staying in your own lane during a race

Driving legs

Pushing legs powerfully against the ground to create speed

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running movements and changing direction
Understanding of personal space and lane discipline
Introduction to different ways of moving

Current Skills

Sprinting technique with focus on head position
Arm action for speed with pumping motion
Leg drive with high knee action
Running on balls of feet for efficiency

Next Steps

Sprint starts and reaction times
Running around bends and curves
Relay running and baton passing

Milestone Indicators

Consistent head position maintained during sprints

Natural pumping arm action without conscious effort

High knee drive becomes automatic

Light, springy foot contact throughout run

Key Teaching Points

Head up and eyes looking forward maintains balance and direction
Pumping arm action with bent elbows drives the legs faster
High knee drive generates power and speed in sprinting
Running on balls of feet creates light, springy, efficient movement
Lane discipline is essential for safety during sprinting activities
Technique should be prioritised over pure speed for long-term development
Maximum effort activities require proper warm-up and recovery periods

Common Misconceptions

Faster running always means better - emphasise technique over speed
Arms should swing across the body - teach forward/backward pumping action
Looking down helps you run faster - explain benefits of head up position
Sprinting is just running harder - break down the specific techniques required
Everyone should run the same way - acknowledge individual differences while teaching core principles

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries with cones, frequent positive feedback and movement breaks

dyspraxia

Break down techniques into smaller steps, use larger target areas, extra practice time for coordination

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, visual schedule of lesson activities, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use bright coloured cones for lane marking, provide verbal descriptions of technique, assign sighted buddy for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations extensively, hand signals for start/stop, written technique reminders on cards

physical disability

Modify techniques for wheelchair users, focus on arm action, adapted distances and timings

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Following instructions, using descriptive vocabulary for movement, reflecting and evaluating performance

Maths

Measuring distances, timing activities, comparing speeds and improvements

Science

Forces and motion - how the body generates speed, understanding of levers and joints in movement

PSHE

Setting personal goals, showing determination, supporting and encouraging others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at side of lanes for best observation of all students, move between lanes during practice

Observation Focus

Head position - looking forward not down; Arm action - bent elbows with pumping motion; Leg drive - high knees with powerful action; Foot contact - landing on balls of feet; Overall coordination and rhythm

Intervention Points

["Step in if students lose lane discipline", "Provide individual coaching for technique errors", "Modify activities for students struggling with coordination", "Ensure adequate rest periods between efforts"]

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion demonstrations to show technique clearly, exaggerate movements for visibility, provide both correct and incorrect examples for comparison

Verbal Cues

•'Head up, eyes forward!'
•'Pump those arms like pistons!'
•'Drive those knees up high!'
•'Light and springy on your feet!'
•'Technique first, speed second!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m area with clear lanes for sprinting activities

Surface Check

Dry, flat surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Cones placed securely and not in running paths
•Check stopwatch is working and clearly visible
•Ensure measuring equipment stored safely when not in use

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between runners
•Muscle strains from maximum effort sprinting
•Falls due to fatigue or poor surface
•Overexertion in challenging activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear lane boundaries and adequate spacing
•Proper warm-up before intense activities
•Monitor students for signs of fatigue
•Emphasise technique over pure speed
•Adequate recovery time between efforts

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all lanes during sprinting
•Move around during technique practice
•Close supervision during maximum effort activities

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if needed