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Lesson 4 - Counter Tension Balance Sequences

Counter-Balance Dynamics

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Year 8

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Gymnastics

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1h 9min

Big Question

How can we use counter tension principles to create fluid, synchronized partner sequences that demonstrate control, trust and artistic expression?

Learning Objectives

Link skills to perform actions and sequences of movement with control and precision
Work with a partner to perform symmetrical counter tension balances on a variety of body parts
Demonstrate smooth transitional movements between balances at different levels

Key Outcomes

Students will create and perform a three-balance sequence with a partner showing counter tension principles
Students will demonstrate understanding of levels (low, medium, high) in gymnastics composition
Students will provide constructive feedback to peers on sequence quality and execution

Equipment & Resources Required

Gymnastics Mats

4 benches, 3 low boxes, 2 sections of wall bars, mats for apparatus

Distributed evenly across hall space with 2m clearance between each mat for safety

Alternative: Yoga mats or crash mats if gymnastics mats unavailable

Stopwatch

1 for teacher

Keep accessible for timing apparatus setup and activities

Alternative: Smartphone timer or wall clock with second hand

Video Device

1 per student

Positioned on tripod or stable surface to capture skill development section

Alternative: School iPad or teacher's phone

Sun Markers

1 set for demonstrations

Display key vocabulary and success criteria for reference throughout lesson

Alternative: Large paper and pens for visual diagrams

Key Vocabulary

Counter tension

A balance where partners lean away from each other using body weight in opposition to maintain equilibrium

Symmetrical

When both partners perform identical or mirror-image movements creating visual balance

Levels

The height at which movements are performed: low (floor level), medium (kneeling/crouching), high (standing)

Unison

Moving at exactly the same time with synchronized timing

Transitional moves

Linking movements that connect one balance to the next with control and fluidity

Opposition

Forces acting in opposite directions to create stability and tension

Sequence

A series of linked movements performed in a specific order to create a complete routine

Body tension

Muscular engagement throughout the body to create strong, controlled shapes

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Understanding of counter balance principles from previous lessons
Basic body tension and core strength development
Experience working collaboratively with partners in gymnastics
Knowledge of safe gymnastics practices and apparatus handling

Current Skills

Creating symmetrical counter tension balances at three distinct levels
Linking balances with smooth transitional movements
Performing synchronized movements in unison with a partner
Developing compositional skills in sequence building

Next Steps

Combining counter balance and counter tension in complex sequences
Adding dynamic movements and flight elements to sequences
Performing group sequences with 3-4 participants
Creating thematic gymnastic performances with apparatus

Milestone Indicators

Maintaining strong body tension throughout balances for minimum 3 seconds

Demonstrating clear differentiation between low, medium and high level balances

Executing transitions without loss of balance or control

Showing synchronized timing with partner within 0.5 seconds

Providing peer feedback using technical terminology accurately

Key Teaching Points

Counter tension is created by both partners pulling away from each other with equal force - if one person releases, the other falls. Demonstrate this consequence to show interdependence clearly.
Body tension (engaged muscles throughout body) is essential for quality balances - contrast floppy vs. tensioned body positions to show difference. Cue: 'Make your body strong like a plank of wood!'
Levels must be CLEARLY different: low = floor level, medium = kneeling/crouching, high = standing. Avoid mid-range positions that blur distinctions - make choices definitive.
Transitions maintain the partnership flow - encourage creative linking (rolls, turns, weight transfers) rather than just standing up and repositioning. Quality transitions elevate sequences from basic to polished.
Synchronization in unison moves requires clear cueing - teach counting together '3-2-1-GO' or verbal signals. Practice timing separately before integrating into sequences.
Peer feedback must be specific and use technical vocabulary - model quality feedback: 'Your counter tension showed excellent opposition because both of you leaned back with straight arms' rather than 'it was good.'
Safety in counter tension balances comes from communication, testing limits gradually, and knowing how to release safely. Practice controlled releases before attempting challenging balances.

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: Counter tension and counter balance are the same thing. Correction: Show visual comparison - counter tension = pulling away from each other, counter balance = pushing against each other. Use different demonstrations side by side.
Misconception: Only hands can create counter tension. Correction: Explore variety of body parts - feet, shoulders, backs, even heads can create counter tension when pulling away from partner or apparatus.
Misconception: Higher levels are always harder. Correction: Explain that difficulty depends on base of support and centre of gravity - some low balances are very challenging (e.g., both balancing on one hand each). Skill, not height, determines difficulty.
Misconception: Transitions don't matter, only the balances count. Correction: Emphasise that transitions create flow and artistry - the difference between a list of positions and a performance sequence. Show contrasting examples.
Misconception: Stronger partner should do more work in balances. Correction: Counter tension requires EQUAL force from both partners regardless of strength. Adjust distance or body position to equalize, not effort level.
Misconception: Feedback should focus on what went wrong. Correction: Model WWW/EBI structure - always start with what went well to build confidence, then suggest improvements. Positive framing: 'even better if...' not 'you should have...'
Misconception: Apparatus counter tension is completely different from partner work. Correction: Same principles apply - pulling away using body weight in opposition, just apparatus replaces human partner. Transfer understanding explicitly.

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Short, varied activities maintain engagement - lesson structure supports this with 8-10 minute sections. Clear, specific instructions one step at a time rather than multi-step directions. Movement breaks built into lesson structure benefit focus. Fidget tools available during instruction times if helpful. Immediate, specific feedback maintains motivation. Allow leadership roles (demonstrator, equipment manager) to channel energy positively. Visual timers show how long each activity lasts. Proximity praise - catch positive behaviour and reinforce immediately.

dyspraxia

Break skills into smaller sequential steps with extra practice time at each stage. Demonstrate movements slowly, repeat multiple times from different angles. Reduce complexity initially - master basic counter tension before adding levels/transitions. Larger, more stable apparatus for initial attempts (wall bars preferred over benches). Extra verbal cueing during movements: 'Now lean back... keep leaning... hold it there!' Encourage self-talk to guide movement planning. Allow additional time for sequence practice and refinement. Celebrate effort and small improvements, not just end product. Provide picture cards showing balance positions for reference.

autism spectrum

Provide visual schedule showing lesson structure and timings in advance. Clear routines for transitions between sections - 'First warm-up, then skill work, then apparatus, then cool-down.' Offer quiet zone option if sensory overwhelm occurs. Maintain consistent partner pairings rather than frequent changes. Use concrete language avoiding metaphors - 'pull away like elastic band' may be confusing. Provide choice within activities where possible for sense of control. Advance warning of any changes to routine. Social stories about partner work and physical contact if needed.

visual impairment

Use bright coloured markers on apparatus for location identification. Provide tactile demonstrations - student touches teacher/peer performing balance to understand body positions. Partner with sighted buddy for spatial guidance. Verbal descriptions of all visual demonstrations: 'My arms are straight out in front, body leaning back 45 degrees...' Reduce visual complexity - focus on one balance type at a time rather than variety. Audio cues for timing rather than visual signals.

hearing impairment

Visual demonstration essential - teacher models all instructions, not just verbal. Use visual signals for STOP/GO (lights, hand signals, flags). Written instructions/diagrams displayed on whiteboard showing sequence structure. Position student where they can see teacher's face for lip-reading. Partner with peer who can use basic sign language if available. Demonstration videos available showing skills. Minimise background noise during instruction times. Use vibrating timer instead of whistle if available.

physical disability

Adapt balances to wheelchair/seated positions - use resistance bands for counter tension pulling away. Modify counter tension to upper body only if lower body limitation. Allow use of walls/bars for stability support throughout. Extend time allowances for sequence creation and performance. Provide specialist equipment if available (e.g., therapy balls for supported balancing). Partner with sensitive peer who understands physical needs. Focus assessment on achievable elements - cognitive understanding and creative problem-solving may be strengths.

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Technical vocabulary development: counter tension, symmetrical, opposition, unison, transitional. Verbal communication: giving clear feedback to partners, explaining techniques. Descriptive language: articulating movements and positions. Listening skills: following complex instructions, responding to peer feedback. Persuasive language: convincing partner to try your balance ideas.

Maths

Angles in body positions (acute, right, obtuse angles in balances). Timing and counting for synchronization (fractions of seconds, coordination). Estimation and measurement in apparatus setup (distances, spacing). Geometric shapes in body positions (triangles, diamonds in partner formations). Symmetry and reflection in mirrored partner balances.

Science

Forces and motion: pushing vs pulling forces, balanced and unbalanced forces, gravity's effect on balance. Friction: grip between hands preventing slipping, floor surface affecting stability. Muscular system: isometric vs isotonic contractions, muscle groups used in counter tension. Levers in the body: effort, load, fulcrum in balance positions. Centre of gravity and base of support concepts.

PSHE

Teamwork and collaboration: working effectively with partners requiring communication. Trust and relationships: physical trust in partner balancing, reliability. Resilience and growth mindset: persevering when balances fail, learning from mistakes. Celebrating diversity: different body types create different balance possibilities, all valued. Managing emotions: frustration when sequences don't work, pride in achievement.

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Warm-up: central hall position for 360° visibility during dynamic chase. Skill introduction: front of class for demonstrations then active circulation. Skill development: continuous movement between pairs, spending 30-45 seconds with each to provide feedback. Apparatus section: position at corner to view all four stations, rotating attention systematically. Cool-down: return to front for plenary activities and dismissal. Never turn back on class for extended periods.

Observation Focus

Warm-up: monitor heart rate elevation, back support technique quality, spatial awareness, safe tagging. Skills: counter tension principles (pulling away), symmetry in partner shapes, clear level differentiation, balance stability (3+ seconds), transition flow. Apparatus: creative problem-solving, safe working practices, application of counter tension in new context. Cool-down: core engagement, appropriate partner force, engagement with reflection. Throughout: look for students needing support, exemplars to highlight, safety concerns requiring intervention.

Intervention Points

Immediate stops required for: unsafe apparatus work (running, solo carrying), excessive force in partner challenges, collision risks during warm-up, balance attempts beyond safe capability, signs of pain/strain in weight-bearing. Teaching interventions: if >30% struggling with concept (reteach whole class), individual pairs showing misconceptions (targeted support), exemplar performances (stop class to share). Behaviour interventions: off-task during partner work (refocus on success criteria), poor sportsmanship (remind of learning culture), exclusion in group work (facilitate inclusion).

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Use confident, competent students as models alongside teacher demonstrations to show peer achievability. Exaggerate key points for visibility (e.g., leaning away motion, straight body lines, synchronized timing). Show both correct technique and common errors for contrast - 'This is right... this is wrong because...' Break complex skills into steps: start position → action → finish position. For counter tension: always demonstrate with visual clarity - side-on view shows leaning away best. Use think-aloud: 'I'm thinking about keeping my core tight... now I'm leaning back until I feel tension...' Ensure all students can see - arrange in semicircle, repeat demo from different angles if needed.

Verbal Cues

•'Soft touches!' - during warm-up tagging to prevent rough contact
•'Find space!' - spatial awareness reminder during dynamic activities
•'Pull away, not push together!' - counter tension vs counter balance distinction
•'Strong core!' - body tension reminder during balances
•'Synchronize - 3, 2, 1, GO!' - timing cue for unison movements
•'Smooth as silk!' - transition quality reminder
•'Show me your best!' - effort and quality cue before performances
•'Safety first, speed second!' - apparatus setup/pack-away priority

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 15m x 20m hall space for class of 30 students. Each pair requires 2m x 2m clear mat space during floor work. Apparatus stations need 3m x 3m minimum with 2m clearance zones between stations. Adequate height clearance of 3m minimum for standing balances.

Surface Check

Clean, dry, non-slip floor surface essential for safe gymnastics work. Check for: water spills, dust causing slipping, debris that could cause injury during floor work. Mats must be in good condition - no tears, adequate thickness (minimum 32mm for gymnastics), non-slip base. Apparatus landing areas require double mat thickness.

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Gymnastics mats checked for tears, adequate padding, non-slip backing secure
•Apparatus inspected before use: benches stable with no splinters, boxes locked in position, wall bars secure with no loose rungs
•Stopwatch functional for timed apparatus setup challenges
•Video recording device secured safely, not in movement zones, adequate battery/storage
•All equipment stored safely at perimeter during warm-up to prevent trips

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Falls from counter tension balances - particularly at high level or during transitions
•Collisions during warm-up chase game - fast movement in shared space
•Partner imbalance causing one person to fall - unequal force application
•Apparatus-related injuries - falls from height, equipment instability, trapped fingers during setup/pack-away
•Wrist/shoulder strain from prolonged weight-bearing in balances and front support positions
•Muscle strain from inadequate warm-up or excessive stretching when cold

Risk Mitigation

•Progressive skill building: master low level balances before progressing to medium then high
•Controlled release technique taught and practiced before high-level balances attempted
•Adequate spacing enforced throughout: 2m between pairs during floor work, clear zones around apparatus
•Partner pairing considers size/strength compatibility to ensure balanced force application
•Apparatus setup/pack-away strictly supervised with clear safety rules and penalty system for infractions
•Regular check-ins for discomfort during weight-bearing activities with immediate modification options
•Dynamic warm-up elevates heart rate and prepares muscles before skill work
•Mats positioned under all balances and apparatus work with appropriate thickness for activity intensity

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Teacher position during warm-up: central location with 360° visibility to monitor chase game dynamics
•During skill work: active circulation between pairs providing feedback and safety monitoring
•Apparatus work: strategic position with sight lines to all four stations simultaneously (corner position optimal)
•Video recording while maintaining visual supervision - brief recording periods, return to active monitoring
•Pack-away: heightened supervision during fatigue period when accidents more likely
•Regular head counts, particularly during transitions between sections

Emergency Procedures

STOP signal established: whistle blow or 'FREEZE' call results in immediate cessation of all movement. Assess situation: minor issue (e.g., disagreement) vs. injury requiring first aid. For injuries: student sits out, first aid applied by trained staff, incident recorded. Serious injury: all students seated away from incident, emergency services contacted if needed, senior leadership team notified. First aid kit accessible in hall. Nearest telephone identified for emergency calls. Emergency exit routes kept clear throughout lesson.