4x150 Relay Lineup Strategy

Each team times its runners, decides the running order using technical criteria (start, curve, anchor leg) and predicts its time before running a 4x150 relay. Students work on speed endurance, team strategy and data analysis.

How to play

1. Teams of 4 (or 5, with an alternate who times). Each member runs a timed 40 m and results go on the team sheet (6 min).
2. Using the data, the team picks the order: who starts best, who handles the curve and who runs anchor. They must justify it in writing (4 min).
3. Mark a course with 150 m legs and 20 m exchange zones. Practice handoffs at 70% in the chosen order (5 min).
4. Each team writes down its predicted time. First 4x150 race with two or three teams at once (5 min).
5. Adjust: a team may swap two runners after reviewing their handoffs (2 min).
6. Second race and comparison of both times with the prediction; the team that comes closest or improves most wins (6 min).

Rules

• The lineup is handed in on paper before each race.
• The baton must be passed inside the zone; outside it adds 3 seconds.
• Points go for improvement and prediction accuracy, not just for winning.
• Safety: waiting runners stand on the outside edge of their lane until their teammate arrives.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: a shorter adapted leg in a wheelchair, with time adjusted proportionally.
• Autism: give the lineup and course drawn on the sheet and keep the student on the same leg each time.
• Lower fitness level: a 100 m leg within a mixed-distance relay.

Learning goals

• Maintain speed over 150 m.
• Make team decisions based on performance data.
• Compare predictions and results to evaluate the strategy.

Equipment for a class of 25

• batons: 7
• cones: 20
• stopwatches: 6
• team sheets: 7

Teacher tip

Use the 40 m times to build balanced teams so anyone can win. Teams often put the fastest runner first; ask where the most time is really gained.

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