Strength and Conditioning Masterclass at Pocklington School

Sixteen children from local primary schools gained an insight into the cutting edge sports science used by professional and international athletes when they joined a Strength and Conditioning Masterclass at Pocklington School.

Aims

Primary pupils aged 9-11 years-old, with an interest in sport were invited to the morning, hosted by Pocklington School's Head of Athletic and Coaching Development and Head of Rugby.

The youngsters were introduced to strength and conditioning exercises and games, which taught them different movement patterns aimed at both enhancing performance and reducing the risk of injury whilst maintaining all round health.

They concentrated on speed testing and technique work, then used force plates, which measure how much force an athlete produces on the ground as they jump - used to measure their symmetry, balance and fatigue.

After some circuit work, the youngsters played games wearing GPS monitoring devices which help to analyse performance levels and fitness.

Resources

The Masterclass was run at Pocklington School using the sports hall, main field and sports equipment resources.  Three members of staff helped to host the event, which ran from 9.00am - 11.30am.  Drinks refreshments were provided mid-way through the morning.

Impact

Pocklington School's Head of Athletic and Coaching Development and Head of Rugby said: "It was awesome to welcome children from a variety of local schools and sports to Pocklington.  We provided an experience of speed and strength testing as well as some movement literacy circuits and feedback on game play from our GPS units.

"The aim was to give the children a sample of elite sport whilst also providing some meaningful take aways for their sport now."

Pupil Involvement

16 children aged between 9 and 11 years-old attended the masterclass.

Frequency

This event is planned to be an annual event.