← Physical Education syllabus

EnglandPhysical Education

Physical training (Paper 1)

6 dot points across 6 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What are the different components of fitness and why do they matter in sport?

Health-related and skill-related components of fitness, their definitions, and the sports and activities in which each is most important.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE PE on the components of fitness: the health-related and skill-related components, clear definitions of each, and the sporting activities in which they matter most.
9 min answer →

How do we measure fitness and why do we test it?

The reasons for fitness testing, the standard tests for each component of fitness, and how to use test data and norms to plan and monitor training.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE PE on fitness testing: the reasons for testing, the recognised test for each component of fitness, the limitations of testing, and how to use results and normative data to plan training.
9 min answer →

How can performers reduce the risk of injury during training and sport?

How to prevent injury through correct application of training principles, protective equipment, technique, warm-up and appropriate clothing and surfaces.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE PE on preventing injury: applying the principles of training safely, using protective equipment and correct technique, warming up, and choosing appropriate clothing, footwear and surfaces.
8 min answer →

What principles should guide an effective training programme?

The principles of training (SPORT and FITT), progressive overload, reversibility, the calculation of training intensity, and how to apply them safely.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE PE on the principles of training: the SPORT and FITT principles, progressive overload, reversibility, calculating training intensity and target heart rate zones, and applying them safely.
9 min answer →

Which training methods develop which components of fitness?

The main training methods (continuous, fartlek, interval, circuit, weight, plyometric and HIIT), the fitness they develop, and their advantages and disadvantages.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE PE on training methods: continuous, fartlek, interval, circuit, weight, plyometric and HIIT training, the components of fitness each develops, and their advantages and disadvantages.
9 min answer →

Why do performers warm up and cool down, and what do these routines involve?

The phases and benefits of a warm-up, the phases and benefits of a cool-down, and why each matters for performance and recovery.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE PE on the warm-up and cool-down: the phases of each routine, the physical and mental benefits, and why warming up and cooling down improve performance and aid recovery.
8 min answer →