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Lesson 3 - Running Over Obstacles

Speed, Power & Fair Play

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Year 3

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How can I develop a smooth, rhythmic running style when navigating obstacles?

Learning Objectives

To develop fluency and rhythm when running over obstacles
To maintain a consistent stride pattern when approaching and clearing obstacles
To coordinate arm and leg movements for efficient running technique

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate smooth, coordinated running over low obstacles
Students will maintain consistent stride patterns between obstacles
Students will work collaboratively to solve tactical challenges

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Scattered around teaching area and used for line marking

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk spots

Hurdles

Adjustable height, set low initially for safety

Alternative: Cones on their side, rope between cones, foam blocks

Measuring Tapes

For accurate 15m distances

Alternative: Pre-marked lines, pace counting

Key Vocabulary

Stride pattern

The regular sequence of steps taken whilst running

Fluent rhythm

Smooth, continuous movement without hesitation or interruption

Lead leg

The leg that goes over the obstacle first

Take-off foot

The foot that pushes off the ground before clearing an obstacle

Coordination

Working arms and legs together in a smooth, controlled way

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running technique with arm-leg coordination
Understanding of jogging, leaping and jumping actions
Experience working in small groups

Current Skills

Developing consistent stride patterns
Maintaining rhythm whilst navigating obstacles
Coordinating take-off and landing techniques

Next Steps

Advanced hurdle techniques with lead leg emphasis
Competitive athletics events and timing
Complex obstacle course navigation

Milestone Indicators

Maintains rhythm without slowing before obstacles

Demonstrates consistent stride count across multiple attempts

Shows coordinated arm-leg action throughout

Key Teaching Points

Consistent stride patterns are developed through counting and repetition
Rhythm maintenance is more important than speed when learning hurdle technique
Lead leg selection depends on approach angle to obstacle
Safety return paths prevent equipment damage and collisions
Teamwork involves listening to all ideas before making decisions
Progressive challenge builds confidence and skill simultaneously
Coordination improves through practice of opposite arm-leg movements

Common Misconceptions

Higher jumping is better than smooth rhythm over obstacles
Fastest runners always win races regardless of technique
Hurdles work the same direction from both sides (safety issue)
Stride counting is only for slow runners
Individual performance is more important than team strategy

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear boundaries, regular movement breaks, specific roles within team activities

dyspraxia

Extra practice time, simplified movement patterns initially, visual cues for stride counting, larger obstacles for easier targeting

autism spectrum

Clear structure with predictable routines, visual schedule of activities, quiet zone available if overwhelmed

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured obstacles, provide verbal guidance for obstacle positions, buddy system for safety

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for start/stop, written instruction cards available

physical disability

Adapted obstacle heights, seated version using arm movements, modified distances based on mobility

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting strides, measuring distances, understanding patterns and sequences, comparing numbers between attempts

Science

Forces in jumping and landing, momentum and motion, how the body moves, understanding gravity and air resistance

Geography

Understanding distance and measurement, spatial awareness, direction and pathways

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration, decision-making processes, listening to others' ideas, building confidence through challenge

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand where all groups/lanes are visible, move between groups during activities to provide individual feedback

Observation Focus

Watch for stride consistency, hurdle technique, safety compliance, and teamwork quality

Intervention Points

Step in if students struggling with stride counting, technique breaking down, or safety rules ignored

Demonstration Notes

Show all movements slowly first, then at full speed. Emphasise stride counting audibly and use clear arm actions to show coordination

Verbal Cues

•'Count your strides!'
•'Lead with the leg closest to the obstacle!'
•'Keep that rhythm flowing!'
•'Return down the side for safety!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 25m x 20m clear indoor space or outdoor athletics area free from obstacles

Surface Check

Non-slip surface checked for hazards, appropriate for running activities

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Mini hurdles properly assembled and stable
•Cones placed securely and visible
•Equipment spaced adequately to prevent collisions

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during running activities
•Falls when negotiating obstacles
•Equipment-related injuries from unstable hurdles
•Fatigue-related accidents during intensive activity

Risk Mitigation

•Clear boundaries and movement patterns established
•Gradual progression from low to higher obstacles
•Mandatory side return paths to prevent collisions
•Adequate rest periods between intensive activities
•Proper warm-up and technique instruction

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all groups during activities
•Monitor fatigue levels during intensive running
•Ensure hurdle height appropriate for age group
•Check students follow safety return paths

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students remain safely positioned