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Lesson 5 - Hurdling and Multi-Event Athletics

Olympic Technique Mastery

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Year 6

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Athletics

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Big Question

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

Hurdles

12 (3 different heights)

3 lanes with 4 hurdles each, 12m to first, 7m between

Alternative: Cones with poles, agility sticks

Mats

50cm before each hurdle for take-off guidance

Alternative: Chalk marks, small cones

SAQ Ladders

Set up before hurdle relay start

Alternative: Marked lines on ground

PE Equipment

1 set

Adjustable height with safety mats

Alternative: Elastic band between posts

Javelins

6 (foam/training)

Clear throwing area with safety zones

Alternative: Pool noodles, foam rockets

Shot Put

6 (appropriate weight)

Marked throwing circle with measuring area

Alternative: Bean bags, tennis balls

Measuring Tapes

One per station for distance/height recording

Alternative: Metre rulers, marked ground

Score Sheets

Pre-prepared with student names and event columns

Alternative: Clipboards with paper

Stopwatch

One per timing station

Alternative: Mobile phone timers

Key Vocabulary

Lead leg

The first leg to clear the hurdle, kept relatively straight

Trail leg

The second leg to clear the hurdle, pulled through quickly

Take-off foot

The foot you push off from before clearing the hurdle

Hurdling rhythm

Maintaining consistent stride pattern between hurdles

Run-up

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

Consistent lead leg over hurdles

Smooth rhythm through hurdle sequence

Quality coaching of peers

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