we learnt about the phlax formation the best way...
we borrowed javelins from p.e and got to be spartan hoplites on the oval, you have to be compacted together and only the first two rows have their spears up while the other rows push you forward. also you cover your neighbour with your shield more so than with yours. also due to them being spartan and all, you were fighting with brothers, sons, lovers. the king also had to be the first one into battle and the last to retreat. sometimes they had helots and peroiki as skirmishes on the sides of the army.
useful?