A practical exploration of fitness tests: balance, coordination, agility and reaction time
I can apply protocols of specific fitness tests that measure balance, coordination, agility and reaction time, and compare results to normative data.
A practical exploration of fitness tests: balance, coordination, agility and reaction time
I can apply protocols of specific fitness tests that measure balance, coordination, agility and reaction time, and compare results to normative data.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Balance is measured by the stork stand test.
- Coordination is measured by the alternate hand wall throw test.
- Agility is measured by the Illinois agility test.
- Reaction time is measured by the ruler drop test.
Keywords
Balance - the maintenance of the centre of mass over the base of support and reference can be made to whilst static (still) or dynamic (whilst moving)
Coordination - the ability to use different parts (two or more) of the body together smoothly and efficiently
Agility - the ability to move and change direction quickly whilst maintaining control
Reaction time - the time taken to initiate a response to a stimulus, i.e. the time from the initiation of the stimulus
Common misconception
When conducting the ruler drop test, the partner or assistant will countdown so the performer knows when the ruler is going to be dropped.
Remind students that they need to drop the ruler randomly, rather than when the performer knows they will drop it, to really ensure validity to test reaction time.
To help you plan your year 10 physical education lesson on: A practical exploration of fitness tests: balance, coordination, agility and reaction time, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 physical education lesson on: A practical exploration of fitness tests: balance, coordination, agility and reaction time, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom.
Explore more key stage 4 physical education lessons from the Physical training: health and fitness unit, dive into the full secondary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Stack of cones, stopwatches x 15, ruler x 15, tennis ball x 15.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Stork stand test
wall throw test
Illinois agility test
ruler drop test
Exit quiz
6 Questions
stork stand test
wall throw test
Illinois agility run
rule drop test
