Lesson 2 - Sprinting Technique & Speed
Fitness Challenge Awareness
•Year 4
•Health Related Fitness
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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- Complete activity instructions & timing
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How can proper technique help us run faster and more efficiently?
Learning Objectives
- To develop correct sprinting technique with coordinated arm and leg movement
- To improve speed through proper body positioning and stride mechanics
- To understand the connection between technique and performance improvement
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate proper arm action moving from pocket to mouth
- Students will maintain forward head position whilst sprinting
- Students will show coordinated opposite arm to leg movement patterns
Equipment & Resources Required
Distributed for marking distances and finish lines
Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk lines
For timing and signal coordination
Alternative: Voice commands, clapping
For accurate 20m and race distance measurement
Alternative: Counting paces, pre-marked lines
Key Vocabulary
Running at maximum speed over a short distance
When the left leg moves forward, the right arm moves forward and vice versa
The range of arm movement during sprinting - hands move from hip pocket level to mouth level
The front part of the foot, just behind the toes
Starting position with one foot slightly ahead, knees bent, weight forward
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic running skills
- Understanding of personal space
- Following simple movement instructions
Current Skills
- Coordinated arm and leg movement patterns
- Proper sprint starting position
- Forward head position maintenance
Next Steps
- Sprint starts and acceleration phases
- Running different distances efficiently
- Relay handover techniques
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Run on the balls of your feet for efficiency and speed
- Keep elbows bent at 90 degrees throughout the sprint
- Move hands from pocket to mouth level with each arm swing
- Use opposite arm to leg coordination for natural rhythm
- Maintain forward head position to aid balance and direction
- Start in ready stance with one foot forward for explosive start
- Focus on technique first, speed will follow naturally
Common Misconceptions
- Faster means better - emphasise that good technique creates sustainable speed
- Arms should swing across body - teach straight forward/back movement
- Looking back won't slow you down - demonstrate how head position affects balance
- Longer strides are always better - focus on efficient, quick steps
- Competition is only about winning - highlight improvement and sportsmanship values
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Clear, short instructions, frequent activity changes, movement-based learning, regular positive reinforcement
dyspraxia
- Simplified technique focus (2-3 points), extra demonstration time, reduced complexity, additional practice opportunities
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual technique cards, predictable activity sequence, quiet spaces available if needed
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured cones, clear verbal descriptions of technique, buddy system for guidance, tactile demonstration of arm positions
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of technique, hand signals for start/stop, written technique checklists, visual whistle alternatives
physical disability
- Adapted starting positions, modified distances, focus on achievable technique elements, wheelchair racing adaptations where appropriate
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Descriptive language for movement, following and giving instructions, discussion and reflection skills
Science
Understanding forces and motion, body systems during exercise, cause and effect relationships in technique
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, giving and receiving feedback, resilience and improvement mindset
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Stand at side of activity area for clear view of all students, move between pairs during technique practice
Observation Focus
Watch for correct technique application, peer coaching quality, and sportsmanship behaviours
Intervention Points
["Step in if technique is becoming unsafe", "Support pairs struggling with peer coaching", "Address any unsporting behaviour immediately"]
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Use exaggerated movements for visibility, show correct and incorrect technique for comparison, involve confident students in demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Pocket to mouth with those arms!'
- •'Eyes forward, not back!'
- •'Feel those elbows at 90 degrees!'
- •'Opposite arm to leg!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 30m x 20m area, clear of obstacles, suitable for sprinting
Surface Check
Dry, even surface free from hazards, good grip for sprinting activities
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Cones checked for sharp edges or damage
- •Clear sight lines for whistle signals
- •Adequate cones available to avoid sharing during activities
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during sprinting activities
- •Muscle strain from inadequate warm-up
- •Overexertion during competitive activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear lane marking and spacing for all activities
- •Progressive intensity building from warm-up
- •Adequate rest periods between high-intensity efforts
- •Emphasis on technique over pure speed
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all sprint lanes
- •Monitor exertion levels and provide rest as needed
- •Ensure proper whistle signals are heard by all
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately for any injury, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure clear access for emergency services if required