Celebrating Physical Activity Month in Schools

The holistic development of the student is becoming increasingly important in the current rapidly evolving education system. While academic rigorousness and the scores on tests remain crucial, an increasing amount of body of research has highlighted an aspect that is often overlooked: breaks for movement in schools. The need for structured and purposeful physical activities in the classroom has never been more vital. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time is becoming the commonplace. In this article we'll look at the reasons why exercise breaks should be a cornerstone of every school's day-to-day schedule, uncover the science behind the benefits of these breaks, and present concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the movement breaks at schools?

Movement Breaks are also referred to as Brain breaks, Activity breaks or Physical Activity breaks, are short periods during the school day where students are encouraged to engage in physical activities. They can be anything from just a few minutes of dancing or stretching to more formal games, exercises or even mindfulness-based activities which require moving. The movement breaks, unlike classes in physical education, which follow a curriculum, are frequent brief interruptions to sedentary class time. They help refocus students to reenergize their minds and stimulate their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Running in the same
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

Why it is important to break the movement of a person: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effects of daily movement breaks for health is among the most compelling reasons for including them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children engage in 60 minutes of physical activity. However, many students do not meet this requirement because of the long hours they spend sitting in classrooms.

Movement Breaks in Schools provide a number of health benefits

• Enhance the cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Help with weight loss
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise boosts the immune system and encourages the development of lifelong healthy routines.

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

In contrast to the popular belief that a longer time at school results in better results, research has demonstrated that taking breaks to move during class can improve the academic level of students . Physical activity boosts circulation of blood to your brain. This provides oxygen and nutrients that are vital for cognitive function.

The most important academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention are improved.
• Memory retention is increased
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• An increase in on-task behavior

Studies have found that students who receive breaks for movement return to their work with greater focus and demonstrate higher achievement scores compared to those without such breaks.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is a concern that affects a lot of students. Anxiety, stress and depression are a major concern for children who are in school. Movement breaks play a significant role in helping to regulate emotions and mental well-being.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunities for social interaction and collaboration

Physical activity during school day provides an outlet for the accumulated energy, frustration or anxiety, assisting to create a more positive classroom environment.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students who suffer from ADHD and sensory processing disorders or other disabilities may benefit from breaks in movement. They benefit from physical activity to regulate their energy levels, increasing their executive functioning and completing academic assignments.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Because movement breaks are adaptable, they can be tailored to fit the needs of different age groups and physical abilities as well as learning methods. Breaks for movement can vary from simple stretches on the chair all the way to group-based interactive exercises. They make sure that every student is able to thrive.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Movement Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this resource

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important in long blocks of instruction.
• Keep it simple: Use routines that require minimal equipment or preparation--think jumping, stretching or games that are quick and easy to play.
• Fun: Integrate music, stories, or themes to keep students entertained.
• Engage students: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families about the benefits of movement breaks.
• Develop policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools, or even mandate these breaks.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with information and training to guide activity breaks in a confident manner.
• Track improvements: Collect and track feedback to improve your practices.

Learn from home or via hybrid learning

Virtual learning isn't any different. Movement breaks are equally crucial. Teachers can facilitate live activity sessions via video calls or assign movement challenges for students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't the movement breaks in between lessons waste time?"

Contrary to popular belief research has shown that students who move regularly are more concentrated, less disruptive and are more effective during their lessons. The breaks during movement can be an investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How can we create time for movement in a packed schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into the transition between subjects or during time of intense focus. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable advantages.

"What is the best course to take if space is limited?"

Some exercises can be completed at desks, or in a small space. In small classrooms, sitting stretches, chair-yoga, or simple arm and hand movements can be effective.

The Effects of Movement Breaks on the School Culture

Integrating movement breaks isn't just about personal benefits, it's about building the school's culture of wellbeing, health, and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Movement-focused schools tend to:

• Healthier overall for students and fewer absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are enhanced
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• Academic results that are stronger

Other wellness programs, such as nutrition education, anti-bullying social-emotional education, social-emotional-learning could be linked to breaks for movement.

Get Started with These Tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two breaks during the day, and then increase the number of breaks.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a regular part of the daily routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students engaged and interested.
4. Solicit feedback: Ask students and teachers for their input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who enthusiastically participate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to implement breaks for movement?

Experts suggest schools take a 30-minute break to move around. But, the duration of breaks can be adjusted depending on the school's requirements.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. No. Movement breaks are not a substitute for organized exercise. They are designed to enhance it.

Are movement breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Most effective movements need no equipment, or just simple items like scarves, balls, or music.

Incorporating movements into your schoolday is an easy approach that has proven advantages. The research suggests that movement is important for many reasons, including improving academic performance, physical health and classroom behavior. If you're a teacher administrator, parent, or policymaker, advocating for and implementing breaks for movement is an investment in the future of our children's success.

Let's make movement a non-negotiable part of every student's school experience--because when students move they learn, improve, and thrive.