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Lesson 2 - Sprinting Technique & Speed

Fitness Challenge Awareness

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Year 4

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Health Related Fitness

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45 min

Big Question

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

Cones

Distributed for marking distances and finish lines

Alternative: Bean bags, markers, chalk lines

Whistles

For timing and signal coordination

Alternative: Voice commands, clapping

Measuring Tapes

For accurate 20m and race distance measurement

Alternative: Counting paces, pre-marked lines

Key Vocabulary

Sprint

Running at maximum speed over a short distance

Opposite arm to leg

When the left leg moves forward, the right arm moves forward and vice versa

Pocket to mouth

The range of arm movement during sprinting - hands move from hip pocket level to mouth level

Balls of feet

The front part of the foot, just behind the toes

Ready stance

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

Consistent opposite arm to leg coordination

Natural pocket to mouth arm movement

Sustained forward head position during sprints

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