The Basics of Running Mechanics

Submitted by: Kerri Goslee

Endorsed by: Don Descy

Mankato State University

May 12, 1997

DESCRIPTION:

I will have the students sit in a semi-circle in the middle of the gym, and we will have a discussion on running mechanics. I will show a few visual aids with pictures of the correct running movements. I will also have a visual aid that can be incorporated into a health lesson.

GRADE LEVEL: Grades 1-3

GOAL:

Students will understand the basic steps in running mechanics.

OBJECTIVES:

The students will list on a sheet of paper the major components of running mechanics. The students will demonstrate the arm and leg opposition by getting up in front of the class and perform the movements while s/he explains correctly what s/he is doing.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

This activity could really be used with any age where running is being used. The lesson will teach the students the correct way to run so that they can benefit the most from this exercise. After the lesson is taught, the students will be playing a variety of games involving the movements learned through the lesson.

CONCEPTS:

Students will be able to:

1. Relate the importance of correct running mechanics with a=20 healthful life.

2. Perform and define the three major running techniques.

MATERIALS:

Four orange cones

visual aid(s)

batons

PROCEDURES:

1. I will start the lesson off by asking the students a variety of questions. After the questions have been answered, I wil use a visual aid with a variety of pictures on it that wil help me demonstrate the correct running techniques. After the basics of running mechanics are covered, I will move the lesson outside. (weather permitting) As a group, the class will perform the correct running techniques that were listed on the visual aid.

I will explain the rules of a running game called "Automobile". I will go on to say that an Automobiles is designed to give students a variety of locomotor skills. The students need to perform these skills so they can reach a certain destination. Once this game is through, I will separate the students into=20 even groups and explain the shuttle relay to them.

I will show them the correct way to hold and pass the baton.

The students will perform the shuttle relay.

I will stress to the students that the shuttle relay is not a competition game, but they should be really focusing on the correct running techniques.

I will end the lesson with a review of the visual aid so the students know the correct running mechanics.

ASSESSMENT:

1. Perform certain running mechanics and ask the students if the technique is correct or not.

2. Have the students correct the technique if I am doing it wrong.

3. Ask how this lesson relates to a healthful life later on.

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