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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can work towards improving muscular strength through weight training.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: performers must lift weights with correct technique (bent knees) and only lift weight within their ability.
      2. Move: feet should always be at least shoulder width apart to provide a stable base.
      3. Think: to increase strength, performers must lift low repetitions (reps) and high weight.
      4. Feel: knowing your own limits and working within them promotes a positive mindset.
      5. Connect: feedback to peers on strengths and areas for improvement on weight lifting technique requires sensitivity.

      Keywords

      • Muscular strength - the maximum amount of force that a muscle or group of muscles can apply against a resistance

      • Weight training - a type of training that uses progressive resistance against a muscle or group of muscles

      • Repetitions (reps) - the number of times you perform a specific exercise or movement consecutively without stopping

      Common misconception

      Weight training is only for people wanting to improve muscular strength.

      Weight training improves strength, muscular endurance, power and speed, as well as increasing bone density and joint stability while reducing the risk of injury.

      Teacher tip

      Use the resources you have. This lesson has been planned so it can be completed with basic resources but if you have resistance machines, use them.

      Equipment

      Selection of weights (dumbells, kettlebells, weighted bar or resistance machines), pencils, post-it notes or scrap paper, music player, additional materials

      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.
      How could you describe your arm and leg movement during continuous training?

      Correct answer: relaxed and rhythmical
      long and fast
      strong and rapid

      Q2.
      What kind of endurance does continuous training improve?

      muscular
      cardiovascular
      Correct answer: muscular and cardiovascular

      Q3.
      What’s developed by praising other people's effort, not just outcomes?

      Correct answer: mutual respect
      competition
      distrust

      Q4.
      How does regular continual training make our performance feel?

      Correct answer: easier
      harder
      the same

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      Why is it so important that technique is correct when weight training?

      to bulk up
      Correct answer: reduce injury
      to look good

      Q2.
      How should we deliver feedback to our peers about their weight training technique?

      Correct answer: with sensitivity
      don’t hold back
      only positives

      Q3.
      How many repetitions would be appropriate to develop strength?

      Correct answer: 6 - 8
      12 - 15
      20 – 30

      Q4.
      What does weight training improve?

      just strength
      flexibility
      Correct answer: strength and more

      To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: Strength training for all, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...