Lesson 5 - Splits and Shoulder Flexibility
Artistic Sequence Control
•Year 3
•Gymnastics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we safely improve our flexibility to become better gymnasts?
Learning Objectives
- To understand the difference between dynamic and static stretching
- To learn proper technique for box splits and right/left splits
- To develop shoulder flexibility through specific movements
Key Outcomes
- Students can demonstrate safe technique for attempting splits
- Students can explain when to use dynamic versus static stretches
- Students can perform shoulder flexibility exercises with correct form
Equipment & Resources Required
Spread evenly around activity area with safe spacing
Alternative: Carpet tiles, yoga mats
Mark boundaries and safe zones for tag game
Alternative: Bean bags, hoops
Calm, slow tempo music for stretching activities
Alternative: Tablet, phone with speaker
Key Vocabulary
Moving stretches that warm up muscles through gentle movement
Still stretches held in one position for a period of time
A split position with legs extended in opposite directions to form a straight line
The ability to move joints through their full range of motion
How far a joint can move in different directions
Muscles at the front of the hip that help lift the leg
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic understanding of stretching
- Ability to hold bridge shapes
- Experience with simple flexibility work
Current Skills
- Introduction to splits technique
- Understanding static vs dynamic stretching
- Shoulder flexibility development
Next Steps
- Advanced splits variations
- Combining flexibility in sequences
- Partner flexibility work
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Never force any stretch or split position - safety is paramount
- Dynamic stretches warm up muscles through movement, static stretches improve flexibility through holding
- Front leg straight with kneecap facing ceiling, back leg straight with kneecap facing down in splits
- Use hands for support during splits practice to maintain control and safety
- Hips should face forward in all split variations to maintain proper alignment
- Breathe normally during all stretching - never hold your breath
- Flexibility improves gradually over time with consistent, safe practice
Common Misconceptions
- That forcing splits will improve flexibility faster - correct by emphasising gradual progress and safety
- That bouncing during stretches helps - explain this can cause injury and static holds are safer
- That flexibility is fixed - show how regular practice leads to improvement over time
- That pain means progress - teach difference between stretch sensation and harmful pain
- That everyone should achieve the same flexibility - celebrate individual progress and differences
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Shorter practice segments, clear visual boundaries, regular positive feedback and movement breaks as needed
dyspraxia
- Simplified movements initially, additional practice time, visual and verbal cues combined, partner support for positioning
autism spectrum
- Clear visual schedule of activities, quiet space available for breaks, consistent routine and predictable structure
visual impairment
- Detailed verbal descriptions of positions, tactile guidance for hand placement, buddy system for support and direction
hearing impairment
- Clear visual demonstrations, written instruction cards, visual cues and hand signals for key safety points
physical disability
- Modified positions using chairs or wall support, adapted range of motion goals, alternative stretches for limited mobility
Cross-Curricular Links
English
New vocabulary development with flexibility terms, descriptive language for body positions and movements
Maths
Angles in split positions, measuring degrees of flexibility, counting in sequences and timing static holds
Science
Understanding how muscles and joints work, the effects of exercise on the body, forces and movement in stretching
PSHE
Personal safety and listening to your body, perseverance and patience with gradual improvement, respect for individual differences in flexibility
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move constantly around room during practice, position centrally for demonstrations, ensure clear sightlines to all students
Observation Focus
Watch for safe technique, appropriate range of motion, signs of forcing or discomfort, positive effort regardless of flexibility level
Intervention Points
Step in immediately if students force stretches, provide hands-on guidance for technique correction, offer modifications for different ability levels
Demonstration Notes
Show all movements slowly and clearly, emphasise technique over depth, model safe practice throughout, use children as positive examples when appropriate
Verbal Cues
- •'Only go as far as feels comfortable!'
- •'Remember to breathe normally!'
- •'Use your hands for support!'
- •'Listen to your body!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 10m x 10m hall space with additional room for individual mats, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Non-slip surface suitable for gymnastics mats, clean and dry floor
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check mats are clean and properly positioned
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or damage
- •Verify adequate space between mats for safe practice
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Overstretching and muscle strain
- •Poor technique leading to injury
- •Collisions during warm-up tag game
- •Forcing splits beyond safe range
Risk Mitigation
- •Constant emphasis on never forcing stretches
- •Close supervision during splits practice
- •Clear technique demonstrations before practice
- •Progressive approach to flexibility development
- •Regular safety reminders throughout lesson
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all children during splits practice
- •Move around constantly during individual practice
- •Monitor closely for signs of forcing or discomfort
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if necessary