Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation: flexibility
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can safely perform PNF stretches with a partner and explain how it can help my training.
Key learning points
- Move: increasing overload using FITT pushes the body beyond its current level.
- Move: combining stretches and muscular contractions is required to perform proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation.
- Think: reflecting on the effectiveness of adjustments using the FITT principle ensures appropriate progression.
- Feel: having courage to trust a partner enables a wider range of performance enhancing stretches.
- Connect: working in pairs with clear communication and trust helps pupils to stretch safely and effectively.
Keywords
PNF - a type of partner assisted stretching that combines muscle contractions with deep stretching to improve flexibility
Contraction - tensing or shortening of a muscle
Overload - working the body harder than it is used to, so it adapts and gets fitter
Common misconception
PNF can sometimes be confused as a partner simply helping to deepen the stretch by pushing a bit further.
The method of contracting the muscle activates the nervous system which helps improve flexibility more effectively than static stretching alone.
Teacher tip
Judging the trustworthiness of pupils is important with PNF. A yoga session could be a safer alternative.
Equipment
PNF session script, mats, cones, stopwatches, tape measure
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.How quickly should we increase overload?
Q2.Which word best describes applying the right level of overload?
Q3.How can you check if your progressions will be safe to perform?
Q4.Why might fitness levels stay the same?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which of these represents a suitable increase in time from running 30 minutes in the previous session?
Q2.What must the stretcher and partner do during PNF?
Q3.What does PNF combine?
Q4.When should PNF be performed?
To help you plan your 9 physical education lesson on: Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation: flexibility, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 9 physical education lesson on: Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation: flexibility, 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 3 physical education lessons from the Athletics: fitness development of pace or power unit, dive into the full secondary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.