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      A practical exploration of continuous, fartlek, interval training and static stretching

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can train using different methods of training including continuous training, interval training, fartlek training and static stretching.

      Key learning points

      1. Fartlek training is beneficial for sports like football, where players frequently change pace and intensity.
      2. Continuous training requires aerobic effort for a minimum of 20 minutes, such as running, swimming, rowing or cycling.
      3. Interval training works in the anaerobic training zone and involves work followed by rest periods.
      4. An example of a static stretch is an isometric muscle contraction as the muscle stays the same length.

      Keywords

      • Continuous training - involves working for a sustained period of time without rest

      • Interval training - periods of training/work that are followed by periods of rest, e.g. work, rest, work, rest

      • Fartlek training - training using different intensities or over different terrains e.g. sprint, jog, walk, jog, sprint etc.

      • Static stretching - holding a stretch still/held/isometric

      Common misconception

      Running is the only type of interval training.

      Interval training can be done with any activity, as long as it involves high intensity work followed by a rest period.

      Teacher tip

      This lesson could be split to allow students to practically take part in each method of training.

      Equipment

      Different terrains, cones.

      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

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      An endurance activity like running a marathon is an activity, meaning it is performed with oxygen.

      Correct Answer: aerobic

      Q2.
      A marathon runner is likely to need which component of fitness the most?

      speed
      strength
      power
      Correct answer: cardiovascular endurance

      Q3.
      Flexibility is the range of movements possible at the .

      Correct Answer: joint, joints

      Q4.
      What is the the anaerobic training threshold?

      60-80% of maximum heart rate
      Correct answer: 80-90% of maximum heart rate
      40-60% of maximum heart rate
      90-100% of maximum heart rate

      Q5.
      Taylor is 32. What is her maximum heart rate?

      198 bpm
      Correct answer: 188 bpm
      178 bpm
      168 bpm

      Q6.
      Match the definition to the correct method of training.

      Correct Answer:continuous training,involves working for a sustained period of time without rest

      involves working for a sustained period of time without rest

      Correct Answer:static stretching,holding a stretch still

      holding a stretch still

      Correct Answer:fartlek training,training using different intensities or over different terrains

      training using different intensities or over different terrains

      Correct Answer:interval training,periods of training/work that are followed by periods of rest

      periods of training/work that are followed by periods of rest

      Correct Answer:weight training,the use of weights/resistance to cause adaptation of the muscles

      the use of weights/resistance to cause adaptation of the muscles

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Which component of fitness does continuous training predominantly develop?

      Correct answer: cardiovascular endurance
      power
      speed
      agility

      Q2.
      During continuous training the heart rate should be between 60% and of maximum heart rate.

      Correct Answer: 80%, 80, eighty, eighty percent

      Q3.
      Which is the best definition of interval training?

      You rest then work at low intensity then repeat
      You work at a low intensity then rest
      You work at high intensity for a long period of time
      Correct answer: You work at high intensity quickly then rest then repeat

      Q4.
      Which component of fitness does interval training not develop?

      cardiovascular endurance
      speed
      strength
      Correct answer: agility

      Q5.
      Which component of fitness does static stretching develop?

      Correct Answer: flexibility

      Q6.
      Which athlete would most benefit from using fartlek training to develop their fitness?

      marathon runner
      triathlete
      Correct answer: rugby player
      100m sprinter

      To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: A practical exploration of continuous, fartlek, interval training and static stretching, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...