Physical Education

Unit - 3

3.2.10.3.Runabouts for hurdlers
Hurdlers use another method of practicing their skill when fatigued. Naturally, they have to concentrate on running form as well, but their event requires the successful negotiation of barriers. Turnabouts are a method of practicing the skill of hurdling under pressure. These are performed indoors or out, as necessary. Quite simply, hurdles are placed in pairs next to each other, with one facing one way and the other in the opposite direction. A series of these pairs can be laid over a stretch of 20-60 meters, as appropriate.

The athlete then runs in one direction clearing the hurdles facing the correct way, and when he reaches the end simply turns about face to take the other hurdles, which are now facing the right way for the return journey.

The whole point about turnabouts is that the skill is practised under fatigue, so a series of repetitions are used with a very short recovery. This means that the session is a fine form of physical conditioning in its own right as well as being extremely specific to the demands of the event.