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      Types of training: can you complete a continuous training session?

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can complete a sustained, continuous training session at a steady-state, sub-maximal level to develop cardiovascular endurance.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: aerobic exercise requires low intensity movement for a sustained amount of time.
      2. Think: regular aerobic exercise is often used to improve cardiovascular and muscular endurance.
      3. Feel: a steady pace is best when doing aerobic exercise to avoid fatigue too early in the session.
      4. Connect: using others for encouragement can help maintain motivation.

      Keywords

      • Aerobic - exercise that uses oxygen to produce energy, done at a steady pace over time

      • Sub-maximal - working below your highest effort, at a steady and manageable level

      • Motivation - the encouragement or support from others that helps you stay focused and complete a task

      Common misconception

      A racing heart and feeling of breathlessness means you need to slow down.

      You need to build up gradually and pace yourself at the start of a run, but feeling out of breath and a racing heart rate is normal during sub-maximal exercise.

      Equipment

      A safe (supervised) space to run and a timer or stopwatch

      Content guidance

      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).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What is it called when you perform vigorous exercise, followed by a short rest period and then repeat?

      circuit training
      Correct answer: high-intensity interval training
      continuous training
      cross training

      Q2.
      Which is the correct word to describe the ability to use strength quickly to produce explosive movement?

      agility
      coordination
      Correct answer: power
      endurance

      Q3.
      What is required to enable your body and mind to rest, repair and regain energy after exercise?

      Correct answer: recovery
      hard training again tomorrow
      hydration
      intake of fats

      Q4.
      Which exercises are you unlikely to see in a HIIT session?

      burpees
      hill sprints
      jump squats
      Correct answer: swimming 20 lengths

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Which word is often used to describe low intensity exercise?

      anaerobic
      vigorous
      maximal
      Correct answer: aerobic

      Q2.
      Which component of fitness is not improved via continuous training?

      cardiovascular endurance
      muscular endurance
      Correct answer: power

      Q3.
      What happens if you set off too fast?

      Correct answer: fatigue sets in due to lactic acid accumulation
      fatigue sets in due to oxygen accumulation
      your stitch clears quickly
      fatigue sets in due to endorphin release

      Q4.
      What factor does not help with motivation?

      encouraging others
      running with someone else
      Correct answer: eating a big meal just before running
      aiming for a personal best time or distance

      To help you plan your 7 physical education lesson on: Types of training: can you complete a continuous training session?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...