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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can be adaptable and flexible to the needs of my group, environmental conditions and changes.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: working at full intensity in a changing fitness session requires using the correct technique.
      2. Think: using initiative to adjust plans demonstrates quick thinking and adaptability.
      3. Feel: dealing with changes successfully helps to build feelings of resilience.
      4. Connect: being responsive to the needs of others shows a leader is attentive and cares about their team's wellbeing.

      Keywords

      • Adaptability - the ability to modify to meet any new conditions that arise

      • Flexibility - the ability to adapt easily and quickly to different situations or needs

      • Initiative - doing something without being asked, that may not be planned to suit the needs of the group

      Common misconception

      Pupils think being adaptable as a leader is when there is a forced change.

      Adaptability for an effective leader is when it is always happening and the leader is responding to how the needs of the group are being met and if the environment is working or not.

      Teacher tip

      The lesson shows how a task can be applied to circuit training, however the 'chance to try' followed by 'adapting with a changing context' can be applied to any type of health and fitness related exercise.

      Equipment

      skipping ropes, benches, mats, stopwatch, kettlebells / dumbbells, choice of ball, relay batons, weighted ball

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - equipment

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What skill shows an understanding of people's feelings?

      encourgament
      Correct answer: empathy
      enthusiasm

      Q2.
      What is the I in the SMILES principle?

      involve
      Correct answer: inclusion
      innovate

      Q3.
      What trait recognises the emotions of others?

      Correct answer: emotional intelligence
      empathy
      encouragement

      Q4.
      What does diversity represent?

      diet
      design
      Correct answer: difference

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What skill is being used if you respond to a context change which was not planned?

      inclusion
      Correct answer: initiative
      isolation

      Q2.
      What word is associated with adapting?

      Correct answer: modify
      maintain
      measure

      Q3.
      What is the word used for how hard you work during a fitness based session?

      Correct Answer: intensity

      Q4.
      If a leader is not rigid in how their plan/session is running, what are they demonstrating?

      Correct Answer: flexibility

      To help you plan your 9 physical education lesson on: Adaptability and flexibility, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...