Sprint training
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can sprint with effective technique to reach maximal performance.
Key learning points
- Move: effective sprinting technique requires appropriate stride length, high knees and strong elbow drive.
- Move: correctly performed sprint starts launch the performer into the drive phase and improve overall time.
- Think: remembering to keep low during the drive phase will ensure a quick start.
- Feel: being focussed and dedicated to performing at maximal levels will ensure you achieve your best performance.
- Connect: assessing a peer and giving feedback will help to check and improve technique and motivate them.
Keywords
Sprint start - the explosive phase of a sprint in which the performer moves from stationary into movement on the starter’s command
Drive phase - the second phase of the race in the first 20m following the start
Efficient - optimally converting energy into forward momentum
Common misconception
At the beginning of a sprint performance, pupils will rise up into an upright position as soon as possible.
An effective drive phase of sprinting sees the body gradually rise up over the first 20m before assuming an upright position. Trying to get upright too soon after starting will hinder acceleration.
Teacher tip
Performance in sprints is often maximised when performed alongside those with similar ability and speed. Even in training practices, group pupils by ability as closely as possible to motivate them to run maximally.
Equipment
A stack of cones.
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which of these components of fitness is most important in sprinting?
Q2.During the main sprint phase, what position should the body be in?
Q3.Which energy system is used during sprinting?
Q4.What fixed position do the arms remain in throughout most of a sprint?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What is it called when you start before the instruction to “go”?
Q2.Which 2 body parts will your hand move between if your arms are moving correctly when sprinting?
Q3.What is required to achieve your best possible time?
Q4.How does feedback from an external person help our technique?
To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: Sprint training, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: Sprint training, 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 Non-examined assessment: athletics practical unit, dive into the full secondary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.