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Lesson 2 - Developing Running for Speed

From Sprint Technique to Distance Strategy: A Complete Running Journey

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Year 6

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

How can we use technique to transform our running speed and power?

Learning Objectives

To develop and apply correct sprinting technique for maximum speed
To understand how body position affects running performance
To evaluate and improve personal and peer running technique

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate improved sprinting technique with correct head, arm, and leg positioning
Students will run faster using proper foot strike and body alignment
Students will provide constructive feedback to improve peer performance

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

20-30

Mark out 6-8 lanes, 1.2m wide, 50-100m long

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or chalk lines

Stopwatch

2-3

For timing activities and Beat Bolt challenge

Alternative: Smartphone timer apps, count to 10

Measuring Tapes

Mark 50m and 100m distances clearly

Alternative: Pre-measured playground markings

Whiteboards

For recording times and technique points

Alternative: Ground markings for demonstrations

Key Vocabulary

Sprinting

Running at maximum speed over a short distance

Drive phase

The powerful upward action of lifting knees to generate speed

Pumping action

The rhythmic back and forth movement of arms to assist running

Ball of foot

The padded area just behind the toes where sprinters should land

Lane discipline

Running straight within designated lane boundaries

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running and stopping safely
Understanding of personal space and boundaries
Simple arm and leg coordination during movement

Current Skills

Correct head position and focus during sprinting
Pumping arm action with bent elbows
High knee drive for power generation
Running on balls of feet for speed

Next Steps

Starting blocks and reaction times
Sprint relay baton technique
Advanced acceleration and deceleration

Milestone Indicators

Maintains lane discipline at speed

Coordinates all technique elements simultaneously

Shows measurable speed improvement

Key Teaching Points

Technique development requires patience - speed comes from good form, not just effort
Use comparative activities (straight vs bent legs) to help students discover principles
Maintain lane discipline throughout to ensure safety and simulate race conditions
Focus on personal improvement rather than comparison to others
Progressive intensity building prevents injury and maintains technique
Connect body parts to function - explain why each technique element helps speed
Use positive reinforcement to build confidence in technique application

Common Misconceptions

Harder effort always equals faster running - technique is crucial for speed
Looking down helps you run in a straight line - head position affects balance
Straight arms are more powerful - bent elbows provide better coordination
Running on toes is fastest - balls of feet provide optimal balance and power
Longer strides are always faster - optimal stride length varies by individual
Racing means abandoning technique - best performances combine both elements

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts, clear boundaries, regular positive feedback, movement breaks included

dyspraxia

Slower progression, larger targets, simplified technique focus, extra practice time for coordination

autism spectrum

Clear routine structure, visual schedule, quiet zones available, predictable activity progression

visual impairment

Use bright coloured markers, clear verbal cues, buddy system for lane guidance, tactile markers for start/finish

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations, hand signals for start/stop, written technique reminders, clear sight lines

physical disability

Wheelchair racing techniques, seated versions, modified distances, alternative timing methods

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring distances, timing activities, calculating improvements, understanding speed concepts

Science

Forces and motion, lever principles in running action, energy transfer, biomechanics

Geography

Direction and navigation, understanding of distance and scale, spatial awareness

PSHE

Goal setting, resilience, self-improvement, encouraging others, handling competition

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at corner of track area for full visibility of all lanes and students during activities

Observation Focus

Watch for technique application, effort levels, safety awareness, and peer interactions

Intervention Points

["Step in when technique breaks down completely", "Intervene if students compare negatively to others", "Support students struggling with coordination", "Ensure safety protocols followed"]

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate at controlled pace first, then show full speed. Exaggerate technique elements for visibility. Use incorrect examples for comparison but always finish with correct technique.

Verbal Cues

•'Drive those knees!'
•'Pump those arms!'
•'Light and springy!'
•'Technique first, speed second!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 50m x 30m clear area with 6-8 marked lanes, 1.2m wide

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from holes, debris, or slippery areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Cones securely placed and visible
•No loose equipment in running lanes
•Clear sight lines for all activities

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between students during high-speed running
•Muscle strains from inadequate warm-up
•Falls from maximum effort running
•Overexertion in competitive activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear lane boundaries established and maintained
•Adequate spacing between students during all activities
•Progressive intensity building from warm-up to maximum effort
•Controlled rest periods between high-intensity efforts
•Clear start/stop signals for all activities

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position at corner of area for maximum visibility
•Monitor high-speed activities closely
•Watch for signs of fatigue or overexertion
•Ensure lane discipline maintained

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess situation, provide appropriate first aid or support, clear area if needed