Lesson 3 - Relay Running Techniques
From Sprint Technique to Strategic Distance Running
•Year 3
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we work as a team to run our fastest relay race?
Learning Objectives
- To apply sprinting technique in a team relay context
- To develop effective baton changeover skills
- To understand relay rules and lane discipline
Key Outcomes
- Students will successfully perform relay baton changes
- Students will apply correct sprinting technique in relay races
- Students will collaborate effectively as a team
Equipment & Resources Required
Place at starting positions for each team
Alternative: Foam tubes, cardboard tubes, or bean bags
Mark 4 lanes, 20m intervals for straight track
Alternative: Chalk lines, rope, or spots
Clear start and finish lines
Alternative: Cones, chalk lines, or rope
Mark accurate 20m intervals
Alternative: Pre-measured space or counting steps
Key Vocabulary
A team race where runners take turns carrying a baton
The stick that is passed between relay team members
The moment when one runner passes the baton to the next
Staying within your designated running lane
Beginning to run before the starting signal
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic sprinting technique with head up
- Arm pumping action with bent elbows
- Running on balls of feet for speed
Current Skills
- Applying sprinting technique in relay context
- Baton handling and changeover techniques
- Team coordination and communication
Next Steps
- Curved track relay running
- Advanced baton passing techniques
- Competitive relay strategies
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Relay success depends on teamwork, not just individual speed
- Proper baton changeover technique is crucial for team success
- Lane discipline prevents accidents and ensures fair racing
- Palm-up receiving hand position enables smooth baton transfer
- Left-side lane positioning allows safe passing between teammates
- Maintaining sprinting technique while carrying baton requires practice
- Communication and encouragement strengthen team performance
Common Misconceptions
- Relay is only about running fast - correct with emphasis on technique and teamwork
- Dropping the baton doesn't matter - explain race disqualification consequences
- Any hand position works for receiving - demonstrate importance of palm-up position
- Running into teammates is acceptable - teach safe lane positioning
- Individual performance is most important - emphasise team success over individual achievement
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent position changes, clear boundaries, regular positive feedback, movement breaks
dyspraxia
- Simplified baton handling, extended practice time, step-by-step visual guides
autism spectrum
- Clear, structured routines, visual sequence cards, predictable team arrangements
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured batons, verbal descriptions of track layout, guide runner support system
hearing impairment
- Visual start signals, clear written instructions, demonstration-based teaching
physical disability
- Adapted batons (larger/lighter), modified distances, wheelchair-adapted relay format
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring track distances, timing races, calculating team improvement percentages
Science
Understanding energy transfer, momentum in running, forces in sprinting
Geography
Understanding track layouts, spatial awareness, mapping running routes
PSHE
Teamwork skills, handling competition pressure, supporting others, resilience
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at side of track for clear view of all lanes and changeover points
Observation Focus
Monitor technique application, team collaboration and safety during changeovers
Intervention Points
Step in if students struggling with baton technique, safety concerns arise, or team conflicts develop
Demonstration Notes
Use slow-motion demonstrations for complex skills, involve confident students as examples, emphasise safety throughout
Verbal Cues
- •'Palm up and ready!'
- •'Keep running through the change!'
- •'Left side of your lane!'
- •'Smooth and steady!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 25m x 40m flat area, preferably marked athletics track
Surface Check
Even, non-slip surface free from holes or obstacles
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check relay batons for cracks or splinters
- •Ensure lane markers are secure and visible
- •Verify adequate space between lanes
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collision between runners during changeovers
- •Tripping over lane markers or obstacles
- •Overexertion in competitive racing
- •Baton-related injuries from poor handling
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear lane positioning rules enforced
- •Adequate spacing between teams
- •Progressive skill building before competition
- •Emphasis on technique over speed initially
- •Clear stop/slow signals established
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all lanes during races
- •Monitor changeover zones for safety
- •Watch for signs of overexertion in warm conditions
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess student safely, apply first aid as appropriate, summon additional help if needed