Vinyasa flow
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can link yoga poses together in a flowing sequence coordinated with the breath.
Key learning points
- Move: flow sequences are achieved through linking the breath with the movement.
- Move: balancing in more complex poses requires a combination of strength, focus and breath control.
- Think: linking poses boosts session intensity, enhancing cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, strength and balance.
- Feel: flowing through yoga poses increases body temperature, which can feel challenging but enhances flexibility.
- Connect: creating a seamless group sequence of poses with others achieves a harmonious and focused dynamic.
Keywords
(Vinyasa) flow - the style of yoga where poses are linked together in a flowing sequence, coordinated with the breath
Strength - the ability for the muscles to overcome a resistance
Flexibility - the range of movement at a joint
Common misconception
Pupils think that yoga is always slow and steady, and is only for relaxation.
Yoga can be both calming and energising, depending on the style and intention of the practice.
Teacher tip
It is important to know the capabilities of your pupils as you may wish to take out some of the complex poses such as headstands, however also use any of the resources you have available such as a wall to practice against.
Equipment
1 yoga mat per pupil, additional material yoga pose cards, optional: blankets, bolsters and blocks per student and a speaker.
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.When doing ‘a hundred’ movement, how many arm pumps should you do on the inhale?
Q2.Why is improving core strength important?
Q3.What shape should your body be in when performing a plank?
Q4.Where can Pilates be done?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What is the name of the style of yoga where poses are linked together in a flowing sequence, coordinated with the breath?
Q2.How should you breathe when expanding your movement or lifting your body?
Q3.What does a flowing sequence help to increase?
Q4.What should you do if you are unable to do one of the poses in yoga?
To help you plan your 11 physical education lesson on: Vinyasa flow, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 physical education lesson on: Vinyasa flow, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom.
Explore more key stage 4 physical education lessons from the Health and wellbeing: yoga, pilates and mindfulness for life unit, dive into the full secondary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.