Back-to-the-Line Starts: Drop Step vs. Crossover Turn
Students start with their back to the running direction and compare two ways of turning, the drop step and the crossover turn, by timing a 10-yard sprint. They practice starting from unusual positions and making technique decisions from their own data.
How to play
- In groups of three: runner, timer and recorder. Each group marks a 10-yard lane with cones, 3 yards from the next lane (2 min).
- Teach the drop step: back to the lane, the foot on the turning side steps back as the hip opens 180 degrees, and you push off with that foot. Then the crossover turn: pivot on one foot while the other crosses in front of the body.
- Free practice: everyone tries both turns four times at 70% to both sides over 5 yards (4 min).
- Testing: each runner does two 10-yard sprints with each turn, alternating; the clock starts on the timer's clap and stops at the cone. Rotate roles after each runner (7 min).
- Students average their times for each turn on the worksheet and decide which option and which side works best for them.
- Debrief: count how many students were faster with each turn and discuss which sports use this kind of start (3 min).
Rules
- The runner faces away without peeking until the clap.
- Rest at least one minute between sprints.
- Safety: warm up the ankles before turning and keep the area past the 10-yard cone clear.
- Record the times as they are, with no friendly rounding.
Variations
Easier
Run 5 yards at 70% without timing.
Standard
Timed 10-yard sprint with two tries for each turn.
Harder
The timer signals the turning side with one or two claps, and decision time is measured too.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: start with the back of the wheelchair to the lane and compare turning right and left.
- Hearing impairment: the timer taps the runner's shoulder as the start signal.
- Lower fitness: one try per turn and a 5-yard sprint.
Learning goals
- Perform two turning techniques for a start efficiently.
- Record and compare data to choose the best technique.
- Accelerate powerfully after changing orientation.
Equipment for a class of 25
- cones: 16
- stopwatches: 8
- worksheets: 25
Teacher tip
The crossover turn often becomes a full spin, so ask students to point the first step at the finish. Data beats opinion here, so let each student decide using their own worksheet.
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