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Lesson 3 - Developing Flexibility

Scientific Fitness Exploration

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Year 5

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Health Related Fitness

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45 min

Big Question

How does flexibility help our bodies move better and stay healthy?

Learning Objectives

Understand what flexibility is and why it's important for our bodies
Develop personal flexibility through a structured circuit training approach
Recognise the impact of regular stretching on joint mobility and muscle health

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to explain what flexibility means in simple terms
Students will complete a flexibility circuit with appropriate technique
Students will understand how flexibility contributes to overall fitness and health

Equipment & Resources Required

Sun Markers

15 cards

Laminated cards placed at each station with clear instructions

Alternative: Teacher-created cards with stretch illustrations

Cones

Mark each flexibility station clearly around the space

Alternative: Hoops, bean bags, or tape markers

Mats

15 (1 per station)

Provide comfortable surface for floor-based stretches

Alternative: Towels or designated floor spaces

Timer

Visible to teacher for timing station rotations

Alternative: Smartphone timer app or class clock

Music Player

Calm, steady background music for relaxation

Alternative: None - can work in silence

Key Vocabulary

Flexibility

The ability of joints to move through their full range of motion and muscles to stretch

Range of Motion

The amount of movement possible at a joint in any direction

Static Stretching

Holding a stretch position for 15-30 seconds without movement

Dynamic Stretching

Moving stretches that gradually increase range of motion

Circuit Training

Moving between different exercise stations in a planned sequence

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of fitness components from previous units
Experience with simple stretching and cool-down routines
Ability to work safely in pairs and follow instructions

Current Skills

Understanding of flexibility as a fitness component
Performance of static and dynamic stretching exercises
Assessment of personal flexibility levels

Next Steps

Advanced flexibility training techniques
Sport-specific flexibility routines
Integration of flexibility training into personal fitness programmes

Milestone Indicators

Can hold stretches for appropriate duration

Shows improved range of motion over time

Explains the benefits of flexibility training

Key Teaching Points

Flexibility is about safe, comfortable stretching, never forcing movements beyond comfort zone
Breathing normally during stretches helps muscles relax and improves effectiveness
Partner encouragement and support creates positive learning environment and improves motivation
Flexibility develops gradually over time with regular practice and cannot be rushed
Different sports and activities require different types of flexibility but all benefit from general flexibility training
Cool-down stretching helps muscles recover and can prevent stiffness after exercise
Body awareness during stretching helps students understand their own physical capabilities and limitations

Common Misconceptions

Students may think bouncing during stretches is helpful - emphasise static, controlled stretching
Some may believe being inflexible means they're 'bad at PE' - stress that flexibility can be improved by everyone
Students might think stretching should be painful to be effective - reinforce 'comfortable stretch' concept
May assume flexibility is only important for certain sports - show how it benefits all physical activities
Could think that being naturally flexible means they don't need to stretch - explain maintenance is important
Might believe stretching is only for warm-up or cool-down - demonstrate flexibility as a fitness component itself

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Keep explanations concise, provide movement breaks between discussions, use partner system for focus support

dyspraxia

Break down stretches into simple steps, provide extra demonstration time, allow longer time for movement transitions

autism spectrum

Provide clear structure and routine, allow sensory breaks if needed, use visual schedules for station rotations

visual impairment

Use verbal descriptions of stretches, provide physical guidance if appropriate, ensure clear audio instructions at all stations

hearing impairment

Use visual demonstrations extensively, provide written station cards with clear illustrations, use gestures and signals

physical disability

Adapt stretches to seated or supported positions, modify range of motion expectations, focus on personal improvement

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Developing vocabulary related to body parts and movement, explaining and describing physical sensations

Maths

Timing station rotations, measuring flexibility improvements, counting repetitions and hold times

Science

Human body systems - muscular and skeletal systems, understanding how muscles work and respond to exercise

PSHE

Understanding health and wellbeing, importance of regular exercise, working cooperatively with others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move continuously around circuit stations to observe all students, position centrally during discussions

Observation Focus

Monitor stretching technique, partner cooperation, understanding of flexibility concepts

Intervention Points

Step in if students attempt unsafe stretches, provide encouragement for reluctant participants

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate stretches slowly and emphasise the 'comfortable stretch' feeling

Verbal Cues

•'Stretch until you feel gentle tension, not pain'
•'Remember to breathe normally during your stretch'
•'Great encouragement - keep supporting your partner'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large indoor hall or outdoor space with non-slip surface, minimum 15m x 20m for circuit stations

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from obstacles, mats available for floor-based stretches

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check mats are clean and in good condition
•Ensure station cards are clearly visible and securely placed
•Verify adequate space around each station for safe movement

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Overstretching leading to muscle strain
•Loss of balance during standing stretches
•Collisions during transitions between stations

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise 'comfortable stretch' not 'maximum stretch' throughout lesson
•Teach proper breathing technique during stretches
•Establish clear movement patterns for station rotations
•Partner system provides safety monitoring and support

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position to observe all stations during circuit
•Monitor stretching technique for signs of forcing or bouncing
•Watch for students showing signs of discomfort or overexertion

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if any student experiences pain, apply appropriate first aid, contact office if injury suspected