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Lesson 3 - Running Over Obstacles with Control

Multi-Discipline Mastery

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Year 6

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Athletics

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45 min

Big Question

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

Hurdles

15 (adjustable height)

Set at appropriate height for Year 6 (30-40cm), ensure safe approach direction

Alternative: Wire skittles, foam noodles on cones, agility poles

Cones

20 (various colours)

Used for start/finish lines, spacing markers, and end points

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, spots

Measuring Tapes

For accurate 5m spacing between hurdles

Alternative: Pre-marked lines, stepping distances

Bibs

30 (6 colours)

To identify team members during relay activities

Alternative: House colours, numbered bibs

Key Vocabulary

Lead leg

The leg that clears the hurdle first, lifted with knee high and thigh parallel to ground

Trail leg

The following leg that clears the hurdle second, with knee picked up parallel to obstacle

Stride pattern

The consistent number of steps taken between hurdles to maintain rhythm

Hurdle clearance

Running over obstacles with minimal disruption to forward momentum

Rhythm

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

Consistent stride pattern maintained over 3+ hurdles

Clear differentiation between lead and trail leg actions

Ability to adjust pace while maintaining technique

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