Use tactics when running for distance
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can improve my ability to pace myself to improve my long distance running performance.
Key learning points
- Move: we must maintain a steady pace so that we can keep going in long distance running even if others set off quickly.
- Move: breathing deeply during long distance running will help increase our oxygen intake and improve endurance.
- Think: pacing ourselves in a long distance race is a good tactic to allow us to reserve energy for a sprint finish.
- Feel: applying running tactics and completing the run without stopping shows determination.
- Connect: communicating and discussing race tactics helps us to improve our performance.
Keywords
Pacing - running at a speed that we can keep up for a long time. It's like finding a comfortable speed so we don't get too tired too quickly
Tactics - a carefully planned set of actions that are used by a team or an individual to achieve a certain goal
Performance - how well we run or compete in a race
Common misconception
Pupils believe that they shouldn't start to feel fatigued if they are pacing themselves and slow down or stop if they do.
Ensure that pupils understand that it is normal to feel fatigued during the run, even when they are pacing themselves, and they need to push through this using determination.
Teacher tip
When splitting pupils into running groups in cycle 1, where possible, try to use ability groups observed from previous lessons. In cycle 2, when choosing teams of 3, try to differentiate the teams in terms of ability.
Equipment
30+ cones
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What should you do with your arms and shoulders when running a long distance?
Q2.Which word describes a fuel for our body that helps us to move?
Q3.Which stride length is most suitable for long distance running?
Q4.What can having good self-discipline help you to do in a long distance race?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which pace is best suited for a long distance race?
Q2.Which word describes how well you run in a race?
Q3.What should you do if you start to feel tired during a long distance run?
Q4.What can help you to improve your long distance running performance?
To help you plan your 4 physical education lesson on: Use tactics when running for distance, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 4 physical education lesson on: Use tactics when running for distance, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom.
Explore more key stage 2 physical education lessons from the Athletics: athletic challenges developed unit, dive into the full primary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.