For my first session I wanted to test the children and push them to their limits so I could then design the following weeks sessions with their individual needs in mind linked with their ability. To get the participants warmed up as they train outdoors I asked them to do two laps of the track at a jogging pace, using the outside lanes for safety purposes. On completion of this task, the children were divided into groups of four and they performed drills specific to enhancing technique. For example, for thirty meters, legs at a ninety degree angle running with high knees and quick feet which helps them to run on the balls of their feet lightly.
correct technique – 90 degree arms and legs
For the main activity I focused on endurance as this would test their ability and because endurance training can develop the mechanics for sprinting. Most would agree that to train hard and progress you need to be physically fit. The children completed the four times four hundred meters and I quickly identified who had high quality fitness, who needed more training to get to the same standard and the participants that are not physically fit. This instantly provided me with substance to make the following sessions diverse and specific to the athletes fitness capabilities.
Following this I did a cool down session as the exercise they had done was at high intensity. I asked the group to stand in a circular shape so that I could clearly see the children, with it being close to the end of the session that is when they are most likely to loose motivation. I demonstrated a range of stretches starting from the ankles and working upwards to stretch all the muscles they had used thoroughly.
Reflecting in action for this week, I felt that the session needed to have an element of fun to get the children more motivated. I also thought this would help to build a relationship with myself and the participants. Employing elements of fun and using games to coach can be quite challenging when training athletes to sprint, however, I decided for the following weeks it is what the children need to be able to learn the correct technique.
When reflecting on action I feel that the children respond well to positive feedback and encouragement which is what shall be employed within the following sessions. I also believe that using equipment that the children haven’t experienced using would help to motivate the athletes and well as helping them pick up the technique. For example, using mini hurdles to help show a ninety degree angle using their arms and legs will help them when they actually run. To help the children concentrate more when they are training I also would like to divide the group into ability set activities so that each individual is pushed and/or not challenged enough.