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Lesson 1 - Sprinting Technique and Speed

From Sprint Technique to Strategic Distance Running

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Year 3

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use our bodies to make ourselves run as fast as possible?

Learning Objectives

Explore how to use our bodies to run as fast as possible
Learn the correct technique for sprinting including head position and arm action
Understand the importance of staying in lanes during athletic events

Key Outcomes

Students can apply correct sprinting technique when running
Students understand the consequences of incorrect technique
Students can maintain lane discipline during races

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

20-30

Mark out 4-6 lanes on straight track, 40-80m long

Alternative: Markers, small equipment for lane boundaries

Coloured Cones

4 different colours

Green, yellow, red, blue cones for traffic light activity

Alternative: Coloured cards, hand signals

Measuring Tapes

For marking accurate distances

Alternative: Pre-measured areas, yard lines

Key Vocabulary

Sprinting

Running as fast as possible over a short distance

Lane

The marked path each runner must stay in during a race

Pumping action

Moving arms backwards and forwards to help with speed

False start

When a runner begins before the starting signal

Technique

The correct way to perform a skill or movement

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running and jogging
Following simple movement instructions
Understanding of fast and slow speeds

Current Skills

Correct sprinting head position
Proper arm pumping technique
Lane discipline and racing rules

Next Steps

Sprint starts and reactions
Different running distances
Relay techniques and baton passing

Milestone Indicators

Maintains head position looking straight ahead

Pumps arms with bent elbows close to body

Stays in designated lane throughout race

Key Teaching Points

Head position looking straight ahead is crucial for speed and balance
Arms should pump backwards and forwards with bent elbows close to body
Lane discipline is essential for safety and fairness in athletics
Technique exploration helps students understand why correct form matters
Progressive build-up from technique work to competitive sprinting
False starts have consequences in real athletics - waiting for 'Go' signal
Cool down and reflection are vital after intense sprinting activity

Common Misconceptions

Students think looking down helps them run faster - correct by showing how this affects balance
Students believe swinging arms wide gives more power - demonstrate how close elbows are more efficient
Students think lane discipline doesn't matter in school sport - explain real athletics rules and safety
Students assume natural running is always best - show how technique can be improved
Students think sprinting is just about leg strength - emphasise whole-body coordination

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Clear, short instructions with frequent check-ins, regular activity changes, movement breaks as needed

dyspraxia

Extra practice time for technique, simplified movements initially, visual demonstrations with step-by-step breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, consistent routine for race commands, quiet space available if needed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured cones for lane markings, verbal descriptions of demonstrations, guide runner for sprints

hearing impairment

Visual signals for race starts, clear demonstrations of all techniques, written instruction cards

physical disability

Adapted distances for wheelchair users, modified arm actions, alternative techniques for different mobility levels

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances and times, comparing speeds, understanding sequences in race commands

Science

Understanding how muscles work and energy systems, forces and motion in running

Geography

Concepts of direction and space, understanding of lanes and boundaries

PSHE

Fair play and sportsmanship, cooperation in group activities, personal goal setting and improvement

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand to side of track for clear view of all lanes, move around during technique work for individual feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for correct head position (eyes forward), arm pumping action (bent elbows close to body), and lane discipline

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggling with technique, not following commands, or showing unsafe behaviour

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to show technique clearly, demonstrate both correct and incorrect forms for comparison, model appropriate effort and attitude

Verbal Cues

•'Head up, eyes forward!'
•'Pump those arms!'
•'Stay in your lane!'
•'Run through the finish line!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Straight running track 40-80m long, minimum 20m wide for multiple lanes

Surface Check

Dry, even surface with no holes, obstacles or debris

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Cones placed securely and not creating trip hazards
•Lane markings clearly visible and safe
•No sharp or broken equipment

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during sprinting
•Students running out of designated area
•Overexertion during intense sprinting
•Falls due to poor surface or technique

Risk Mitigation

•Clear lane boundaries to prevent collisions
•Controlled start commands to prevent false starts
•Adequate rest between sprints to prevent fatigue
•Progressive build-up from technique work to full sprints
•Clear finish line to prevent dangerous stopping

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to see all lanes during races
•Monitor technique during exploration activities
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
•Ensure proper warm-up and cool-down

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, contact school emergency procedures if needed