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Lesson 3 - Counter Tension Balances and Sequence Timing

Mastering Timing and Synchronisation in Partner and Group Gymnastics

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Year 5

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Gymnastics

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Big Question

How can we use counter tension balances to create dynamic sequences with perfect timing?

Learning Objectives

To develop counter tension balances at different levels with precise timing
To create sequences combining travelling and balancing moves in canon
To demonstrate enjoyment in competing and challenging themselves to improve

Key Outcomes

Students will perform counter tension balances at multiple levels
Students will create timed sequences incorporating travelling and balancing
Students will show improvement through self-challenge and feedback

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

7 large mats

Spread around working space for safety

Alternative: Yoga mats or carpeted area

Apparatus

6 stations (benches, low boxes, inclined mats)

Create circuit around hall with clear pathways

Alternative: Chairs or step platforms

Stopwatch

For timing apparatus setup challenge

Alternative: Phone timer or wall clock

Video Device

For assessment and feedback purposes

Alternative: Tablet or smartphone

Key Vocabulary

Counter tension

Two people pulling against each other to create balance

Canon

One person starts a movement, the second follows shortly after

Dynamics

The speed, force and flow of movement

Transition

Moving smoothly from one skill to another

Levels

High (standing), medium (kneeling), low (lying/crouching)

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic travelling movements on floor and apparatus
Simple balancing skills and body tension
Working cooperatively in pairs
Understanding of canon and unison

Current Skills

Counter tension balances at different levels
Sequence creation with timing elements
Transitional movements between skills
Self-assessment and improvement

Next Steps

Advanced partner balancing techniques
Complex sequence composition
Performance under pressure
Teaching and coaching others

Milestone Indicators

Maintains counter tension for 3+ seconds

Demonstrates smooth transitions between moves

Shows consistent timing in canon work

Actively seeks to improve performance

Key Teaching Points

Counter tension requires equal force from both partners to create stable balance
Canon timing means one person starts, the other follows - not together
Transitions between movements should flow smoothly without jerky stops
Clear starting and finishing positions make sequences look professional
Safety rules with apparatus are non-negotiable and protect everyone
Self-challenge means trying your personal best, not competing with others
Feedback should be specific and helpful, focusing on what you observed

Common Misconceptions

Counter tension is about strength rather than balance - correct by emphasising equal force
Canon and unison are the same thing - demonstrate clear differences with examples
Apparatus work is about doing dangerous moves - emphasise safety and control
Only perfect performances deserve recognition - celebrate effort and improvement
Gymnastics is only for naturally flexible students - show how all can participate and improve

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide fidget tools during discussions, offer movement breaks as needed

dyspraxia

Allow extra practice time, break down movements into smaller steps, provide physical guidance when requested

autism spectrum

Provide clear lesson structure visually, offer quiet space for breaks, use consistent partner pairings

visual impairment

Use bright coloured mats for boundaries, provide verbal descriptions of demonstrations, pair with sighted partner for guidance

hearing impairment

Use visual signals for timing, demonstrate all instructions clearly, use hand signals for feedback

physical disability

Adapt counter tension to seated positions, modify apparatus height, provide additional support equipment

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Timing and rhythm patterns, symmetrical and asymmetrical shapes, measuring improvement and performance

Science

Forces and motion - understanding pull and push forces, momentum in rocking movements, balance and centre of gravity

Music

Canon timing similar to musical rounds, rhythm and beat in movement sequences

PSHE

Building trust with partners, giving constructive feedback, resilience when facing challenges, celebrating diverse achievements

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move constantly between pairs during skill work, position centrally during demonstrations

Observation Focus

Watch for counter tension technique, timing accuracy, and safety consciousness

Intervention Points

Step in when safety rules are broken, technique is unsafe, or students need confidence building

Demonstration Notes

Use confident student helpers for demonstrations, exaggerate key teaching points for visibility, break down complex movements into steps

Verbal Cues

•'Pull away from each other!'
•'Feel the tension in your arms!'
•'Wait for your partner's timing!'
•'Smooth transitions!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large hall space minimum 15m x 10m with apparatus storage area

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip surface free from obstacles and hazards

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check all apparatus is stable and in good condition
•Ensure mats are positioned under all apparatus
•Verify adequate spacing between apparatus stations
•Check stopwatch and recording equipment are working

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls during counter tension balances
•Apparatus-related injuries from poor handling
•Collisions during travelling movements
•Strain injuries from over-ambitious attempts

Risk Mitigation

•Progressive skill building from simple to complex
•Clear apparatus handling rules and demonstrations
•Adequate spacing between working pairs
•Emphasis on controlled movements throughout

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility during apparatus work
•Monitor partner communication during counter tension
•Watch for fatigue during physically demanding sections
•Be ready to intervene during challenging attempts

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, remove from activity if necessary