Lesson 3 - Engaging the Core
Core Strength & Sequences
•Year 4
•Gymnastics
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How does engaging our core muscles help us perform better gymnastics movements?
Learning Objectives
- To identify and strengthen the core muscles that support front and side support positions
- To participate effectively in a mini Tabata series to build core strength
- To understand the importance of core engagement for stability in gymnastics
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate understanding of core muscle groups and their functions
- Students will complete a structured mini Tabata series with proper technique
- Students will explain how core engagement improves their gymnastics performance
Equipment & Resources Required
Arrange mats in grid formation with adequate space between each mat
Alternative: Towels or carpet squares for floor exercises
Visible to all students, with audible signal for intervals
Alternative: Smartphone timer app or online interval timer
Volume appropriate for clear instruction delivery
Alternative: Portable speaker or tablet with motivational music
For recording exercise names and student scores
Alternative: Flip chart paper or demonstration area
Key Vocabulary
The muscles around your trunk and pelvis that provide stability and support
Tightening and activating your core muscles to provide stability during movement
A high-intensity exercise format with short work periods followed by brief rest periods
A gymnastic position where the body is held straight and supported on hands and toes
A core exercise performed lying on back, moving opposite arm and leg whilst maintaining core stability
The ability to maintain control and balance during movement or when holding a position
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic understanding of different muscle groups
- Experience with simple balancing activities
- Familiarity with basic gymnastic positions
Current Skills
- Core muscle identification and engagement
- High-intensity exercise participation
- Stability and support position techniques
Next Steps
- Application of core strength in complex gymnastic sequences
- Independent design of core strengthening routines
- Integration of core engagement in competitive gymnastics
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Core muscles act like a strong belt around your middle providing stability
- Quality of movement is more important than speed or repetition count
- Tabata format builds mental toughness as well as physical strength
- Core engagement directly improves gymnastics performance and safety
- Everyone has different starting points and that's perfectly normal
- Breathing correctly during exercise helps maintain performance
- Personal progress is more valuable than comparison to others
Common Misconceptions
- That core muscles are only the visible 'abs' - actually include deep stabilising muscles
- That harder/faster always means better - technique and control are priority
- That some students 'can't do' these exercises - everyone can participate at their level
- That Tabata is only for fit people - it's scalable for all abilities
- That you should hold your breath during difficult exercises - breathing is essential
- That core strength only matters for advanced gymnastics - it's fundamental for all movement
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear timing signals, movement breaks between explanations, positive reinforcement system
dyspraxia
- Simplified movement patterns, extra practice time, peer buddy system, focus on effort over perfection
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of lesson sections, quiet space available for regulation if needed
visual impairment
- Clear verbal descriptions of all movements, tactile guidance for positioning, partner support for spatial awareness during exercises
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of all exercises, hand signals for timing, written instruction cards available
physical disability
- Chair-based modifications for all exercises, resistance band alternatives, adapted timing for individual needs
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Learning and using subject-specific vocabulary, explaining concepts to peers, following complex instructions
Maths
Counting repetitions, timing intervals, measuring improvement through data collection
Science
Understanding of muscular system, effects of exercise on body, heart rate monitoring during activity
PSHE
Perseverance through challenge, supporting others, recognising personal limits and appropriate challenge levels
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central location during demonstrations, circulating during practice, timer visible position during Tabata
Observation Focus
Watch for proper core engagement, exercise technique, signs of fatigue, and inclusive participation
Intervention Points
Step in when technique deteriorates, if students show signs of overexertion, or if safety concerns arise
Demonstration Notes
Show clear contrast between engaged and non-engaged core, demonstrate all exercise progressions, emphasise breathing patterns during holds
Verbal Cues
- •'Engage your core like a strong belt around your middle!'
- •'Quality over quantity - perfect technique first!'
- •'Use your rest time to prepare for the next interval!'
- •'Feel those muscles working to keep you stable!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 15m x 20m clear space, mat per student, non-slip surface
Surface Check
Dry, even floor suitable for floor exercises and movement activities
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check mats are clean and not slippery
- •Ensure timer is clearly visible and audible
- •Verify adequate space between students for arm movements
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Overexertion during high-intensity Tabata
- •Wrist or shoulder strain during support positions
- •Dizziness from intense exercise
- •Collisions during warm-up movement
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear progression from warm-up through to intense exercise
- •Emphasis on technique over speed throughout
- •Multiple modification options for different ability levels
- •Regular check-ins for student comfort and capability
- •Adequate rest periods and hydration opportunities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility during Tabata timing
- •Circulate during exercise practice to correct technique
- •Monitor for signs of overexertion or discomfort
- •Be alert for students pushing beyond safe limits
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if any student shows distress, provide appropriate first aid or support, ensure other students continue safely under supervision