Lesson 6 - Arm Balances and Strength Control
Mindful Movement Flows
•Year 5
•Yoga
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How can we use our strength and control to create beautiful flowing yoga sequences that challenge our balance?
Learning Objectives
- To develop strength and control through arm balances
- To create flowing sequences that link arm balances with traditional poses
- To demonstrate mindful breathing and body awareness during challenging poses
Key Outcomes
- Students will be able to perform arm balances with improving control and stability
- Students will create and perform an 8-pose yoga flow incorporating arm balances
- Students will demonstrate focused breathing and mindfulness throughout the session
Equipment & Resources Required
Arrange in rows with 2 metres space between each mat for safety
Alternative: Towels or gym mats if yoga mats unavailable
Display where all students can see clearly, consider multiple sets for group work
Alternative: Printed images or tablet/computer display
Keep available for students ready for greater challenge
Alternative: Advanced pose demonstration videos
Test volume levels before lesson, have backup audio ready
Alternative: Portable speaker or no music if unavailable
Queue up track for warm-up and cool-down sections
Alternative: Teacher-led verbal guidance without audio
Key Vocabulary
A respectful greeting meaning 'the light in me honours the light in you'
Yoga poses where the body weight is supported primarily by the arms and hands
A sequence of yoga poses linked together with breath and smooth movement
A focused gaze point used to help maintain balance and concentration
Conscious regulation of breathing to enhance focus and stability
Activating the deep abdominal muscles to support the spine and create stability
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic yoga poses and sun salutation sequences
- Understanding of proper breathing techniques in yoga
- Ability to hold static balances and basic strength poses
- Experience with partner work and creating simple sequences
Current Skills
- Arm balance poses with progressive difficulty levels
- Creating flowing sequences that incorporate arm balances
- Advanced breathing techniques for challenging poses
- Partner work and performance skills in yoga
Next Steps
- Advanced arm balances and inversions
- Complex vinyasa flow sequences
- Teaching and leading yoga sessions for others
- Integration of yoga principles into daily life and other physical activities
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Progression through arm balance levels is more important than achieving advanced poses
- Focused gaze (drishti) and calm breathing are essential for all balance work
- Arm balances require core strength and technique more than pure arm strength
- Mindful movement and patience prevent injury and build lasting skills
- Yoga practice connects physical challenge with mental focus and emotional calm
- Partner work should emphasise cooperation and mutual support rather than competition
- The traditional opening and closing create respectful boundaries around the practice
Common Misconceptions
- Misconception: Arm balances are only about arm strength. Correction: Core engagement and proper weight distribution are equally important
- Misconception: Advanced poses are better than basic poses. Correction: Perfect execution of basics shows true skill and understanding
- Misconception: You must achieve every pose to be successful. Correction: Progress through progressions at your own pace is the goal
- Misconception: Yoga is always calm and easy. Correction: Yoga can be challenging while maintaining inner calm and focus
- Misconception: Falling out of poses means failure. Correction: Coming back to poses builds resilience and is part of learning
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear time boundaries, emphasise the calming benefits of focused breathing
dyspraxia
- Extra time for position setup, simplified sequence options, focus on individual progress rather than comparison
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, predictable sequence format, quiet space available if overstimulated
visual impairment
- Use clear verbal descriptions of poses, partner support for spatial orientation, tactile guidance for hand/foot placement
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstration cards always available, use clear hand signals, written instructions for sequences
physical disability
- Chair-adapted arm balances, modified progressions, alternative poses that build same strength principles
Cross-Curricular Links
Maths
Counting breath cycles, timing sequences, spatial awareness and body geometry in poses
Science
Understanding balance and centre of gravity, effects of breathing on body systems, muscle tension and relaxation
Geography
Cultural awareness through yoga traditions from India, understanding different approaches to physical wellness globally
PSHE
Mindfulness and mental health, patience and perseverance, working cooperatively with others
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position during demonstrations, circulate during practice phases for individual support
Observation Focus
Watch for proper progression through arm balance steps, monitor breathing quality, assess cooperation in pairs
Intervention Points
Step in if students attempting poses beyond their ability, support those struggling with frustration
Demonstration Notes
Model calm, focused energy throughout. Demonstrate poses at appropriate level for the class. Show patience and persistence when poses are challenging.
Verbal Cues
- •'Press the floor away with your hands'
- •'Keep your gaze steady on that spot'
- •'Breathe calmly even when it's challenging'
- •'Listen to your body - it will tell you when you're ready for the next step'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 20m x 15m clear space, yoga mats for all students with 2m spacing
Surface Check
Clean, level, non-slip surface suitable for yoga practice
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check yoga mats are not slippery and in good condition
- •Ensure audio equipment volume is appropriate
- •Visual guides are clearly visible and securely displayed
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Wrist strain from arm balances
- •Falls during balance poses
- •Overexertion attempting advanced poses
- •Dizziness from breathing work or position changes
Risk Mitigation
- •Emphasise gradual progression through pose levels
- •Regular reminder about not forcing poses
- •Encourage listening to body signals
- •Clear instruction about sitting up slowly from relaxation
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all students during arm balance practice
- •Circulate during individual practice to provide guidance
- •Monitor for signs of overexertion or discomfort
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, basic first aid available, clear evacuation route