PaceSetter Book

Sustained Activities 7

7.3.6 The Head The eyes should be fixed forward (about 10m–20m ahead), head steady and neck muscles relaxed. The head must not be allowed to roll from side to side at any point as this may lead to inefficiency in the rest of the technique. WEB COPY ©EVEQUE 7.3.7 Group Observation Having carefully explained the basic technique of race walking, the young athletes can work with partners or small groups and observe each other’s actions. • Is your partner maintaining contact with the ground? • Is your partner holding the trunk and head erect or is he or she leaning forwards or backwards? • Is the head rolling from side-to-side? • Is your partner keeping the knee straight after planting the heel? • Is your partner using the hips correctly?

• Could your partner increase his or her stride length? • Are your partner’s shoulders being kept square? • Does your partner have good arm swing?

Young athletes who have developed a good walking technique can be asked to demonstrate their technique to their peers.

7.3.8 Summary of Technique i) One foot must be in contact with the ground at all times. ii) Head and trunk to be kept upright. iii) Strike the ground with the heel of the foot and ensure a straight leg action. iv) Push from foot up to the toes, to increase stride length. v) Hip action - maintain the swinging forward. vi) Arm action - prevent over-swing. WEB COPY ©EVEQUE

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