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Lesson 4 - Parlauuf Running

Power & Technique Excellence

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Year 6

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Athletics

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Big Question

How can we work together strategically to maximise our running performance?

Learning Objectives

Understand and explain what parlauuf running is and how it differs from standard relay running
Assess own running ability, fitness level and pacing strategies
Collaborate effectively in pairs and teams to achieve optimal running performance

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to explain parlauuf running techniques and strategy
Students will demonstrate self-assessment skills in running performance
Students will work collaboratively to complete running challenges efficiently

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

8-12

Used to mark 50m and 60m track layouts

Alternative: Markers, spots, or temporary markers

Batons

1 per pair/team (8-10)

Must be easy to grip and pass safely

Alternative: Bean bags, foam tubes, or relay sticks

Gym Mats

1 per pair/team

Positioned at centre or start/finish area

Alternative: Hoops, marked zones, or start/finish markers

Stopwatch

1 (teacher) + optional team stopwatches

For timing activities and development challenges

Alternative: Phone timer, digital displays

Measuring Tapes

To set up accurate 50m and 60m tracks

Alternative: Pre-measured distances, marked track

Key Vocabulary

Parlauuf

A form of competitive running where pairs or teams take turns running while others rest

Pacing

Managing your running speed to maintain performance over distance or time

Strategy

A plan for how the team will split the running to achieve the best time

Recovery

The time needed to catch your breath and prepare for the next run

Baton

Object passed between runners to indicate whose turn it is to run

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic running technique and pacing
Understanding of relay running concepts
Experience working in pairs and small teams

Current Skills

Parlauuf running strategy and execution
Self-assessment of running performance
Collaborative planning and communication during running

Next Steps

Advanced pacing strategies for longer distances
Leadership roles in team athletics events
Cross-country and endurance running techniques

Milestone Indicators

Consistent baton passing without stopping

Effective communication during strategy planning

Accurate self-assessment of running performance

Key Teaching Points

Parlauuf allows flexible lap distribution unlike equal-share relay running
Self-assessment questions help students monitor their own performance and development
Strategic planning becomes essential as team size and challenge complexity increases
Communication and collaboration are as important as individual running ability
Pacing strategies differ between lap-based and time-based challenges
Recovery time and teammate support are crucial elements of team success
Safety in baton passing and shared track space requires constant attention

Common Misconceptions

Thinking parlauuf is just another name for relay running
Believing the strongest runners should do all the work
Assuming faster is always better without considering team strategy
Not understanding that self-assessment means evaluating your own performance, not comparing to others
Missing the collaborative planning element in favour of individual achievement
Thinking strategy can't be changed once decided upon

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear goals, frequent movement changes, immediate feedback and celebration

dyspraxia

Extra practice with baton passing, simplified track layouts, additional processing time for strategy planning

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedule of activities, predictable routine structure, quiet zones available for breaks

visual impairment

Use bright coloured cones and batons, verbal cues for track layout, buddy system for navigation

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations of all concepts, hand signals for timing, written strategy cards available

physical disability

Adapted running distances, wheelchair accessible track design, modified baton passing techniques

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Calculate total distance run by adding individual lap distances, time calculations for pacing, strategic number combinations for lap splitting

Science

Understanding heart rate and recovery, effects of exercise on breathing and circulation, energy systems in short-burst vs sustained running

Geography

Spatial awareness and navigation around track layouts, understanding of distance and direction

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration skills, self-assessment and reflection, leadership and communication, supporting others' wellbeing

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position with clear sightlines to all track areas, move around perimeter during activities to observe all teams

Observation Focus

Strategy development, safe baton passing, appropriate effort levels, team communication and collaboration

Intervention Points

Step in if students show signs of overexertion, unsafe baton passing, or breakdown in team collaboration

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Use clear, exaggerated movements for track layout, model strategic thinking aloud, show safe baton passing technique

Verbal Cues

•'Think about your pacing - save energy for your team!'
•'Clear baton pass in the safety zone!'
•'How is your strategy working so far?'
•'Support your teammates with encouragement!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 50m x 30m outdoor space or large sports hall for track setup

Surface Check

Even, non-slip surface free from holes, debris, or wet areas

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check cones are stable and visible
•Ensure batons have no sharp edges or damage
•Verify mats are positioned safely and securely

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Collisions between runners on shared track
•Overexertion during sustained running activities
•Trips or falls from poor surface or equipment placement
•Dehydration during high-intensity activities

Risk Mitigation

•Clear track boundaries and directional running established
•Adequate spacing between teams during simultaneous running
•Regular checks for signs of fatigue or overexertion
•Hydration breaks available throughout lesson

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of entire track area
•Monitor baton handover zones for safe passing
•Watch for signs of distress or overexertion
•Ensure all students are accounted for throughout

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess and provide appropriate first aid, ensure other students are safely managed during any emergency response