Lesson 5 - Hurdling and Multi-Event Athletics
Olympic Technique Mastery
•Year 6
•Athletics
•Start Planning Better PE Lessons
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How can we combine speed and technique to become efficient hurdlers and multi-event athletes?
Learning Objectives
- To combine sprinting technique with efficient hurdling movements
- To understand and apply lead leg and trail leg concepts in hurdling
- To demonstrate quality technique across multiple athletic disciplines
Key Outcomes
- Students will perform hurdling with correct lead leg and body position
- Students will understand the biomechanics of efficient hurdling technique
- Students will work cooperatively in groups to support and assess peers
Equipment & Resources Required
3 lanes with 4 hurdles each, 12m to first, 7m between
Alternative: Cones with poles, agility sticks
50cm before each hurdle for take-off guidance
Alternative: Chalk marks, small cones
Set up before hurdle relay start
Alternative: Marked lines on ground
Adjustable height with safety mats
Alternative: Elastic band between posts
Clear throwing area with safety zones
Alternative: Pool noodles, foam rockets
Marked throwing circle with measuring area
Alternative: Bean bags, tennis balls
One per station for distance/height recording
Alternative: Metre rulers, marked ground
Pre-prepared with student names and event columns
Alternative: Clipboards with paper
One per timing station
Alternative: Mobile phone timers
Key Vocabulary
The first leg to clear the hurdle, kept relatively straight
The second leg to clear the hurdle, pulled through quickly
The foot you push off from before clearing the hurdle
Maintaining consistent stride pattern between hurdles
The approach distance needed for optimal jumping or throwing
Skill Progression Pathway
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Prior Learning
- Basic sprinting technique
- Simple jumping and landing movements
- Understanding of athletic field events
Current Skills
- Lead leg and trail leg coordination
- Efficient hurdle clearance technique
- Multi-event rotation and assessment
Next Steps
- Advanced hurdling with speed maintenance
- Competition preparation and race tactics
- Specialisation in preferred athletic events
Milestone Indicators
Key Teaching Points
- Lead leg should be relatively straight when clearing hurdles
- Opposite arm to lead leg provides balance and coordination
- Head and shoulders must remain forward throughout hurdle clearance
- Consistent take-off point is crucial for rhythm and efficiency
- Quality technique is more important than speed in learning phases
- Run-ups must be individualised based on ability and conditions
- Peer feedback should be specific and technique-focused
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking the same leg always goes first (lead leg can vary between individuals)
- Believing higher hurdles automatically mean better performance
- Focusing only on results rather than technique improvement
- Assuming one size fits all for run-up distances
- Thinking cooperation means just being quiet and following instructions
SEN Adaptations
ADHD
- Frequent activity changes, clear boundaries, regular positive feedback, movement-based learning
dyspraxia
- Break down movements into smaller steps, extra practice time, use larger/lighter equipment where appropriate
autism spectrum
- Clear structure with visual schedule, quiet zones available, consistent routines and expectations
visual impairment
- Use bright coloured markers and verbal descriptions of all movements, partner guidance system
hearing impairment
- Visual demonstrations with clear hand signals, written instruction cards available
physical disability
- Modify hurdle heights or use alternative obstacles, wheelchair racing options, adapted throwing implements
Cross-Curricular Links
English
Technical vocabulary development, giving specific feedback, following complex instructions
Science
Forces and motion in athletic movements, biomechanics of efficient technique, measurement and data recording
Geography
Using countries and capitals, understanding global locations, map work connections
Mathematics
Distance measurement, time recording, data analysis, geometry of throwing angles
Teacher Guidance
Positioning
Move between stations with priority on throwing events and hurdles
Observation Focus
Technique development, cooperation quality, safety awareness
Intervention Points
Poor technique causing safety risks, exclusionary behaviour, equipment misuse
Demonstration Notes
Use slow motion for technique points, exaggerate key positions, involve students in demonstrations
Verbal Cues
- •'Straight lead leg over the hurdle!'
- •'Head and shoulders forward!'
- •'What specific feedback can you give your partner?'
Safety Considerations
Space & Surface Requirements
Space Requirements
Large outdoor space minimum 60m x 40m for multiple athletics stations
Surface Check
Firm, level surface free from holes or hazards, adequate drainage
Equipment Safety
Safety Checks
- •Check hurdles are stable and correct height
- •Ensure throwing implements are in good condition
- •Verify landing areas are safe and adequate
- •Confirm measuring equipment is accurate and safe
Risk Management
Key Risks
- •Collisions during hurdling
- •Injuries from throwing events
- •Falls in jumping events
- •Overexertion in competitive activities
Risk Mitigation
- •Clear spacing between hurdle lanes
- •Designated throwing and landing areas
- •Supervision at high-risk stations
- •Progressive skill building before competition
Supervision & Emergency Procedures
Supervision Points
- •Position for visibility of all stations
- •Prioritise supervision of throwing events
- •Monitor hurdle reset procedures
- •Ensure helper students follow safety protocols
Emergency Procedures
Stop activity immediately, assess injury, apply first aid protocols, contact school medical support if needed