Athletics

Athletics

Athletics Guide

Athletics is a versatile and inclusive sport that builds strength, endurance, coordination, and confidence. From younger children participating in Sportshall Activities to athletes excelling in field and track events, athletics is the foundation of many physical activities. With a range of equipment and programmes, it’s easy to introduce athletics in schools, clubs, or community settings.

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Sportshall Activities for Younger Children

Recommended by England Athletics, the Sportshall Activities programme introduces younger children to core physical skills such as coordination, agility, and spatial awareness. Featuring twelve engaging activities, it’s ideal for school-led festivals or events to foster a love for movement and sport from an early age.


British Athletics Academy Sportshall Awards

In partnership with British Athletics, the Sportshall Awards programme encourages children to develop their all-round fitness and sporting skills. The awards reward improvement and achievement, making them perfect for inclusive school or club settings.

Key Features:

  • Based on the Sportshall Decathlon.
  • Promotes fitness and skill development in a fun, engaging format.
  • Celebrates progress, ensuring accessibility for all ability levels.

Equipment Guidelines

Athletics equipment needs to be tailored to the athlete’s age and skill level. Here are the recommended weight ranges for popular events:

Hammer Throw:

Age Group

Men’s Hammer Weight

Women’s Hammer Weight

Under 13

Up to 3.25kg

Up to 3.25kg

Under 15

4kg

Up to 3.25kg

Under 17

5kg

4kg

Junior

6kg

4kg

Senior

7.26kg

4kg

Javelin:

Age Group

Men’s Javelin Weight

Women’s Javelin Weight

Under 13

Up to 400g

Up to 400g

Under 15

600g

500g

Under 17

700g

500g

Junior

800g

600g

Senior

800g

600g

Discus:

Age Group

Men’s Discus Weight

Women’s Discus Weight

Under 13

Up to 1.00kg

Up to 0.75kg

Under 15

1.25kg

1.00kg

Under 17

1.50kg

1.00kg

Junior

1.75kg

1.00kg

Senior

2.00kg

1.00kg

Shot Put:

Age Group

Men’s Shot Weight

Women’s Shot Weight

Under 13

Up to 3.25kg

Up to 2.72kg

Under 15

4.00kg

Up to 3.25kg

Under 17

5.00kg

Up to 3.25kg

Junior

Up to 6.25kg

4.00kg

Senior

7.26kg

4.00kg


High Jump Landing Areas

Safety is essential in athletics, especially in events like the high jump. High Jump Landing Areas ensure a secure landing with their advanced foam modules and durable PVC covers.

Module Specifications:

  • Module A: 2.5m x 1.66m x 25.5cm
  • Module B: 2.5m x 1.25m x 25.5cm
  • Module C: 2.5m x 1.25m x 51cm

Each module includes options for a PVC Coverall or Spike-Proof Topper, designed to withstand spike damage and ensure longevity.


How to Introduce Athletics in Schools

Athletics offers opportunities for every student to participate and succeed. Here are tips for incorporating it into your curriculum:

  1. Focus on Fundamental Skills: Start with running, jumping, and throwing activities tailored to age and skill levels.
  2. Incorporate Sportshall Activities: Use the Sportshall framework for younger children to make athletics fun and accessible.
  3. Rotate Disciplines: Give students a chance to try multiple events, helping them find what they enjoy most.
  4. Reward Progress: Introduce award schemes like the British Athletics Academy Sportshall Awardsto celebrate achievements.
  5. Ensure Safety: Use age-appropriate weights for equipment and invest in proper landing areas for jumping events.

Fun Fact

Did you know? The modern Olympic Games originated in 1896 with athletics as one of the core events. Today, track and field is among the most popular sports globally, with millions of participants and fans!

Learn More About Athletics from British Athletics


Essential Athletics Equipment

  • Sportshall Kits: Perfect for introducing younger children to athletics.
  • Javelins, Hammers, and Discuses: Available in various weights for all ages.
  • High Jump Modules: Designed for safe and durable landings.
  • Stopwatches and Measuring Tools: For accurate timing and distance measurement.

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