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      Team challenges with high tempo

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can attack the net with intent, move and hit shots with balance, coordination and control.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: focusing on a fixed point in the distance improves one footed balance.
      2. Move: having your racket up in the ready position speeds up transitions to hit on either side.
      3. Think: hitting the ball whilst stationary improves control and accuracy of shots.
      4. Feel: confidence comes from repetition and familiarity.
      5. Connect: supporting each other to work just outside your comfort zone requires mutual respect.

      Keywords

      • Approach shot - played in the mid-court as you attack in towards net

      • Balance - the ability to maintain stability and control of body position during movement (dynamic) or while stationary (static)

      • Comfort zone - a situation where you feel safe or at ease

      Common misconception

      Pupils think balance is only a static position, such as standing on one leg, and is only really needed in sports like gymnastics.

      The ability to balance whilst static is essential in sport and in life, be that on one leg or two, but it is important to highlight the kinaesthetic awareness that unlocks success is also required in dynamic balances (i.e. while on the move).

      Teacher tip

      Empower pupils to choose their own sideline activities, for example skipping ropes or slam balls could be introduced instead of the activities suggested on the additional materials.

      Equipment

      a tennis racket each, a bucket of balls per court (ideally low compression), 16 cones per court, tennis posts and nets, music

      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).

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What is the priority focus in cardio tennis?

      Correct answer: maintaining elevated HR
      hitting maximal HR
      developing shot technique

      Q2.
      What does cardiovascular fitness rely on?

      joint flexibility
      Correct answer: heart and lungs
      muscle strength

      Q3.
      What chemical is released during exercise that helps us to feel good?

      Correct answer: endorphins
      cortisol
      endocrine

      Q4.
      What is your target heart rate zone for improving aerobic fitness?

      80-100 BPM
      Correct answer: 120-160 BPM
      180-200 BPM

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      It is essential to find balance as you hit an approach shot, but where should it be played?

      behind the baseline
      Correct answer: mid-court
      at the net

      Q2.
      What is it called when you maintain stability and body control whilst on the move?

      static balance
      kinaesthetic balance
      Correct answer: dynamic balance

      Q3.
      What does standing in the ready position achieve?

      Correct answer: faster reactions
      better power
      better coordination

      Q4.
      What helps to build confidence and familiarity?

      competition
      Correct answer: repetition
      transition

      To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: Team challenges with high tempo, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...