This longitudinal study investigates whether there is a relationship between the quality of lesson planning and its subsequent successful implementation. Data were collected from 309 preservice students enrolled in a physical education unit from 2004 to 2006. Marks for lesson plans and the teaching of these plans were analysed using SPSS v.17. Correlational and regression analyses were used to establish nexus between the quality of lesson planning and the subsequent implementation of the planning. The findings reveal that there is a positive relationship between the quality of lesson planning and the quality of delivery. The findings support the importance of lesson planning in teacher education. This is particularly crucial in the professional development of prospective teachers. Quality lesson planning will, however, not necessarily mean automatic translation into successful implementation. Therefore, it is imperative that teacher education provides support to student teachers to make informed transition from a lesson plan to its successful delivery.