TEACHING PROGRESSIONS FOR RUNNING TECHNIQUE

Children with visual impairments can learn running techniques just like their sighted peers by progressing through structured drills that enhance coordination, posture, rhythm, and strength. While adaptations may be needed for accessibility, the pedagogical structure remains the same.

These drills help children develop foundational running mechanics. Each one can be adapted using tactile modelling, auditory cues, or verbal instruction.

Below are some examples.

Running Drills – Butt Kicks

Running Drills – High Knee Skips

Running Drills – Start Drills

In a way not different from the teaching progression for children without visual impairments, it is possible to train starting from 2, 3, or 4 contact points.

The video demonstrates an example of a 4-point start with a tethered guide.

Running Drills – Synchronizing Movements with the Guide

It is important to dedicate time to teaching the child with a visual impairment and their guide how to synchronize upper limb movements if the tethered guiding method is to be used.

Additionally, it is crucial to spend time training with the guide to build teamwork and trust between the athlete and their guide, which is essential for facing even the most challenging competitions in the future.

In the following video, observe an example of good arm movement synchronization between the athlete and the guide.

Running Drills – Arm Movements

The correct arm movement during running does not always emerge spontaneously; specific exercises may be needed to train it, as shown in the following video, where the athlete is given a sound-emitting baton to hold in each hand, allowing him to focus more on the arm movement.

Running Drills – Acceleration Drills

An effective way to train acceleration while having fun is to incorporate exercises in the form of a team relay. In the following video, an example is shown.