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

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can complete a flow training session to improve flexibility, mobility and mindfulness.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: smooth transitions between different body positions rely on body awareness.
      2. Think: joints and muscles need to be warm before working them through their full range of movement.
      3. Feel: being comfortable and calm promotes relaxation, leading to smoother, more fluid movement.
      4. Connect: sharing your learning with others can help reinforce your understanding.

      Keywords

      • Flow - moving smoothly and continuously from one position to another with control and awareness

      • Mindfulness - paying full attention to the present moment with awareness and calm

      • Flexibility - the ability to move joints and muscles through their full range of motion

      Common misconception

      Only gymnasts need good flexibility.

      Flexibility is important for performance in any activity/sport. Essentially, it is important for every day health and wellbeing, especially to avoid lower back pain and poor posture.

      Equipment

      Access to a safe space and ideally a mat or towel to lie on, 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 exercise with a reliance on oxygen to provide energy for muscular contractions?

      anaerobic
      Correct answer: aerobic
      maximal
      high intensity

      Q2.
      Which of the following is least likely to benefit from continuous training?

      cardiovascular endurance
      strength of respiratory muscles
      muscular endurance
      Correct answer: explosive strength

      Q3.
      Ideally, how often should you do continuous training to get a benefit?

      every day
      once a week
      Correct answer: a couple of times a week
      once a month

      Q4.
      Which of the following best describes continuous training?

      lifting heavy weights with long recovery times between sets
      alternating between periods of high-intensity work and rest
      performing explosive jumping movements to increase power
      Correct answer: exercising at a steady pace for a sustained period without any rest breaks

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      How would you define flexibility?

      pushing muscles beyond their comfort zone
      Correct answer: the ability to move joints and muscles through their full range of motion
      being able to hold your body stable under tension
      the ability to contract muscles with strength and speed

      Q2.
      Before participating in a sport or vigorous activity, which type of stretching is generally recommended to prepare the muscles for movement?

      ballistic stretching (bouncing forcefully)
      static stretching (holding a pose still)
      Correct answer: dynamic stretching (moving while stretching)
      passive stretching (having a partner push you)

      Q3.
      When performing a static stretch, such as a hamstring stretch or even the warrior pose, how should it feel to ensure safety and effectiveness?

      Correct answer: you should feel mild tension or slight discomfort
      you should feel the muscle shaking uncontrollably
      you should feel sharp, stabbing pain
      you should feel nothing at all

      Q4.
      What is a key benefit of maintaining good flexibility?

      it replaces the need for sleep
      it significantly increases maximum heart rate
      it builds large muscle mass quickly
      Correct answer: it improves range of motion and helps maintain good posture

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