Lesson 2 - Pacing and Distance Running
Technical Mastery & Leadership
•Year 5
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can I maintain the same speed over longer distances to run further and faster?
Learning Objectives
- Measure the distance of run pacing to run over longer distances
- Recognise the importance of setting a pace for longer runs
- Work to improve distance covered in set times
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate consistent pacing over extended distances
- Students will explain the relationship between pace and distance
- Students will record and analyse their running performance data
Equipment & Resources Required
Pre-distribute around working area perimeter
Alternative: Tag rugby bands, fabric strips, coloured scarves
Each group of 4 needs individual beanbags for identification
Alternative: Small cones, tennis balls, foam blocks
Used for distance marking (10m, 30-60m) and target areas
Alternative: Sports markers, chalk lines (outdoor), masking tape (indoor)
Placed at varying distances for progressive challenges
Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, marked zones
Ensure all students can hear timing signals clearly
Alternative: Mobile phone timers, large countdown clock
Laminated sheets work well for outdoor use
Alternative: Clipboards, whiteboards and markers
Key Vocabulary
Keeping a consistent speed over extended distances
Maintaining the same running speed without slowing down or speeding up dramatically
Recording how far someone has run using cones and counting laps
The ability to run for long periods without getting too tired
Planning how fast to run based on the distance you need to cover
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic running technique and form
- Understanding of start and stop commands
- Ability to work cooperatively in pairs and small groups
- Basic timing and counting skills
Current Skills
- Understanding of pacing principles
- Measuring and recording running distances
- Maintaining consistent pace over extended periods
- Team running coordination and strategy
Next Steps
- Advanced pacing strategies for competitive running
- Understanding heart rate and effort levels
- Race tactics and strategic running
- Long-distance running techniques
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Pacing means maintaining consistent speed over extended distances rather than sprinting and resting
- The longer the distance, the slower the sustainable pace needs to be for successful completion
- Body awareness (breathing, muscle fatigue) helps determine appropriate pace for different distances
- Strategic thinking in team activities requires considering individual abilities and cumulative distances
- Accurate measurement and data recording skills support understanding of performance improvement
- Team cooperation and communication are essential for successful group pacing challenges
- Recovery and reflection help consolidate learning and prepare for future application
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking that running faster always means covering more distance - address through demonstration of sprint-rest versus steady pace
- Believing that the same pace works for all distances - correct through varied time interval activities
- Assuming team activities are about individual speed rather than collective strategy - emphasise team planning and cooperation
- Thinking measurement activities are just about numbers - connect data to pacing principles and improvement
- Believing that fatigue means failure - reframe as natural response that informs pacing decisions
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Break activities into shorter segments, provide frequent movement opportunities, use clear visual and physical boundaries
dyspraxia
- Simplify measurement techniques, provide additional practice time, use larger equipment for easier handling
autism spectrum
- Provide clear visual schedule of activities, establish quiet zones for breaks, use consistent timing and routine structure
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured equipment for visibility, provide verbal descriptions of distances and boundaries, pair with sighted buddy for measurement activities
hearing impairment
- Use visual signals alongside whistle calls, demonstrate all instructions clearly, provide written timing cards for reference
physical disability
- Adapt distances to individual capabilities, provide alternative measurement roles, use wheelchair-friendly pacing activities
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Measuring distances accurately, recording data in tables, calculating metres per second, analysing patterns in performance data
Science
Understanding heart rate changes during exercise, body systems response to sustained activity, energy conservation principles
Geography
Using measurement skills, understanding scale and distance, spatial awareness during team activities
PSHE
Teamwork and cooperation, strategic planning, supporting others, personal challenge and achievement
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move around perimeter of activities for clear sightlines, position centrally during demonstrations for maximum visibility
Observation Focus
Watch for pacing consistency, team cooperation, measurement accuracy, and appropriate effort levels throughout
Intervention Points
Step in when students show over-exertion, lack of understanding of pacing principles, or unsafe movement patterns
Demonstration Notes
Demonstrate: Exaggerate differences between sprint-rest and steady pacing. Show clear measurement techniques. Model strategic team discussions.
Verbal Cues
- •'Steady pace - save your energy!'
- •'Think about the distance you need to cover!'
- •'How does your body feel right now?'
- •'Count your laps carefully with your partner!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large outdoor space minimum 40m x 30m, or indoor hall minimum 30m x 20m, clear of obstacles
Surface Check
Even, dry surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas that could cause falls
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check beanbags are securely sewn and not leaking filling
- •Ensure cones have no sharp edges or cracks
- •Verify hoops are intact with no rough edges
- •Check tails/bands are strong enough to pull without snapping
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions between runners during activities
- •Over-exertion from sustained running without appropriate pacing
- •Slips and falls from rapid direction changes
- •Dehydration during extended physical activity
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear running lanes established and maintained throughout
- •Progressive activity structure allows for appropriate warm-up
- •Emphasis on pacing prevents over-exertion
- •Regular monitoring for signs of fatigue or distress
- •Adequate space between groups during all activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for maximum visibility of all working areas
- •Monitor individual students for appropriate effort levels
- •Watch team activities for safe cooperation and communication
- •Check measurement activities for safe movement patterns
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately for any injury, assess severity, provide appropriate first aid, have emergency contacts readily available