Lesson 3 - Running Over Obstacles with Control
Multi-Discipline Mastery
•Year 6
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we maintain rhythm and control when running over obstacles at speed?
Learning Objectives
- To develop running over obstacles with greater control and coordination
- To understand and apply lead and trail leg techniques when hurdling
- To maintain consistent rhythm and stride patterns over multiple obstacles
Key Outcomes
- Students will demonstrate controlled hurdle technique with clear lead and trail leg actions
- Students will maintain consistent stride length between hurdles at different speeds
- Students will show improved coordination and rhythm when running over obstacles
Equipment & Resources Required
Set at appropriate height for Year 6 (30-40cm), ensure safe approach direction
Alternative: Wire skittles, foam noodles on cones, agility poles
Used for start/finish lines, spacing markers, and end points
Alternative: Markers, bean bags, spots
For accurate 5m spacing between hurdles
Alternative: Pre-marked lines, stepping distances
To identify team members during relay activities
Alternative: House colours, numbered bibs
Key Vocabulary
The leg that clears the hurdle first, lifted with knee high and thigh parallel to ground
The following leg that clears the hurdle second, with knee picked up parallel to obstacle
The consistent number of steps taken between hurdles to maintain rhythm
Running over obstacles with minimal disruption to forward momentum
The regular, repeated pattern of movement and timing in hurdling
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic running technique and rhythm
- Simple jumping and landing skills
- Understanding of pace and speed variation
Current Skills
- Lead and trail leg technique
- Stride counting and consistency
- Obstacle clearance with minimal disruption to running rhythm
Next Steps
- Advanced hurdle technique with speed
- Tactical race planning for hurdle events
- Biomechanical analysis of hurdle technique
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Safety first - always approach hurdles from correct direction for safe knockdown
- Lead leg reaches high with knee up and toes back, trail leg tucks with knee out
- Consistent stride counting between hurdles creates efficient rhythm
- Run THROUGH hurdles with flowing motion, not jumping HIGH over them
- Technique quality more important than speed - build speed gradually
- Fair play and honesty are as important as athletic performance
- Practice leading with both left and right legs for balanced development
Common Misconceptions
- Jumping over hurdles instead of running through them - emphasise stepping motion
- Only practicing with preferred lead leg - ensure both sides are developed
- Thinking faster always means better - prioritise technique before speed
- Belief that knocking down hurdles means failure - explain it's part of learning
- Assuming taller students automatically better at hurdles - technique matters most
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, additional movement breaks, positive reinforcement system
dyspraxia
- Simplified hurdle technique progression, larger obstacles for easier clearance, additional practice time
autism spectrum
- Clear routine structure, visual schedule of activities, quiet space available for breaks if needed
visual impairment
- Use brightly coloured hurdles, provide verbal guidance for safe approach, buddy system for navigation
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations of all techniques, hand signals for instruction, written technique cards available
physical disability
- Adapted hurdle heights or alternatives, wheelchair-accessible obstacle courses, modified stride counting
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Technical vocabulary development, clear explanation of concepts, active listening during instruction
Maths
Counting strides and measuring distances, timing activities, calculating pace and rhythm patterns
Science
Forces and motion in hurdle clearance, biomechanics of efficient movement, energy transfer in running
PSHE
Perseverance through challenges, fair play and honesty, supporting others and teamwork
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Central position with clear view of all groups, rotate to provide individual feedback during skill practice
Observation Focus
Monitor hurdle technique development, stride consistency improvement, and safety compliance throughout
Intervention Points
["Step in if students approaching hurdles incorrectly", "Provide individual technique coaching during practice phases", "Mediate any competitive disputes fairly and educationally"]
Demonstration Notes
Use slow-motion technique demonstrations, emphasise contrast between correct and incorrect technique, involve confident students in demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Lead leg high, trail leg tucked!'
- •'Count your strides - find your rhythm!'
- •'Run THROUGH the hurdles, not over them!'
- •'Smooth like flowing water!'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Minimum 40m x 30m outdoor area or large sports hall with adequate height clearance
Surface Check
Flat, dry surface free from obstacles, suitable for running and safe hurdle placement
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Hurdles set at appropriate height for Year 6 (30-40cm maximum)
- •All hurdles face same direction for safe knockdown
- •Hurdles checked for stability and proper assembly
- •Cones and markers have no sharp edges or trip hazards
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collision with hurdles or other students
- •Falls from incorrect hurdle technique
- •Overexertion from competitive activities
- •Muscle strains from inadequate warm-up
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear boundaries and spacing between groups established
- •Proper warm-up emphasising dynamic movement preparation
- •Correct hurdle approach direction taught and enforced
- •Graduated progression from walking to running pace
- •Adequate rest periods between high-intensity activities
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for clear view of all hurdle approaches
- •Monitor hurdle technique for safety compliance
- •Watch for signs of fatigue during competitive sections
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury severity, provide appropriate first aid, contact emergency services if required