Technique Mastery & Biomechanics
•Year 8
•Athletics
•Distributed to team captains before activities begin
Alternative: Tennis ball tubes, rolled newspaper, foam tubes
Used as baton alternatives for initial practice
Alternative: Small foam blocks, tennis balls
Different colours for different stations and zones
Alternative: Sports markers, chalk lines, tape marks
For accurate station and zone measurements
Alternative: Pre-measured rope, stride counting
One per group for timing challenges
Alternative: Mobile phone timer apps, large display timer
For clear start signals and safety stops
Alternative: Voice commands, hand signals
The process of passing the baton from one runner to the next in a relay race
The designated area where baton exchanges must take place in competition
The moment when the baton is transferred from giver to receiver
The 10-metre area before the receiving zone where the next runner can begin accelerating
Maximising speed while minimising time lost during baton exchanges
Changeover technique where the receiver looks back to see the incoming runner
Advanced technique where receiver doesn't look back, relying on verbal cues
Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going
Forces and motion in running and acceleration, physics of efficient baton exchange mechanics, biology of muscle groups used in sprinting
Analysing baton design for optimal grip and aerodynamics, designing relay training equipment or course layouts
Understanding track and field layouts, mapping efficient movement patterns, studying athletics venues around the world
Measuring circuit distances and timing calculations, calculating average speeds and improvement percentages, geometry of efficient running paths
Teamwork and collaboration skills, dealing with pressure and competition, building resilience after mistakes or poor performance
Central location when possible to observe multiple groups, move actively between circuits during practice, position at finish line during races for safety monitoring
Technique quality over speed, safety of exchanges, team communication patterns, individual confidence levels, signs of fatigue
Step in immediately for unsafe exchanges, provide technique coaching when students struggle, mediate any team conflicts, adjust activities for struggling individuals
Always demonstrate at slow speed first for understanding, then at normal speed for realism. Use clear, exaggerated movements for visibility. Involve confident students in demonstrations when appropriate.
Minimum 30m x 40m clear space for multiple relay circuits, indoor sports hall or outdoor athletics area
Dry, non-slip surface essential for safe running and sudden direction changes, check for any obstacles or debris
Stop signal (whistle blast) for immediate halt of all activities, assess any incidents calmly, apply appropriate first aid, ensure other students continue safely away from incident area
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