Setting Goals for Physical Activity in Schools

The holistic growth of the student is becoming more important in today's rapidly changing education system. While academic test scores and rigor remain important, a growing body of research has highlighted an aspect that is often overlooked: breaks for movement in schools. The need for structured active physical activity that is purposeful in the classroom has never been more important. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are becoming the commonplace. In this guide, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a key element of every school's daily schedule and uncover the science of their advantages, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What Are Movement Breaks in schools?

Movement breaks--also known as breaks for the brain break, activity breaks, or physical activity breaks--are short breaks during the school day when students are required to participate in physical activities. These breaks can range from short periods of dancing or stretching to more formal exercises, games, or even mindfulness activities that involve movement. In contrast to the physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined schedule, these breaks are short, frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time designed to help students reenergize and refresh their minds.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in the same
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that require movement
• Breathing guided by a guide, paired with gentle movement

Why movement breaks matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the most compelling reasons to incorporate movement breaks is their positive impact on physical well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children and teens should engage in at least 60 minutes of physical movement each day. However, many students fall short of this recommendation because they are unable to spend enough time sitting in classrooms.

School-based movement breaks Offer Several Health Benefits

• Enhance cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Support healthy weight management
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular movement also boosts the immune system and encourages the creation of long-term healthy routines.

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

Contrary to the common belief that spending more time in school leads to better grades, research has shown that taking breaks to move in class can boost academic performance . Physical activity boosts circulation of blood to your brain. This provides oxygen and nutrients that are vital for cognitive functioning.

The key benefits for academics include:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Memory retention is increased
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• Increased on-task behavior

The results of studies have shown that students who get breaks to move return to work with greater focus and demonstrate higher achievement scores compared to those without such breaks.

3. Mental Well-being

The mental health of children is a growing concern, with stress, anxiety, and depression plaguing many school-age youngsters. The role of exercise in regulating emotions and promoting mental well-being is well-known.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Endorphins are released and give you a feeling of happiness
• Social interaction and teamwork

Physical activity during the school day provides an opportunity to release any excess energy, frustration or anxiety, which can help to create a positive classroom environment.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

The benefits of movement breaks are especially beneficial to students suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sensory processing challenges, or other special needs. Physical exercise can help students manage their energy levels, improve executive function, and help them better perform in academic activities.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Since movement breaks can be easily adapted, they can be tailored to meet the requirements of different ages physical capabilities, as well as learning style. Movement breaks can range from simple chair stretches all the way to group-based interactive exercises. They guarantee that every student is able to thrive.

How do you incorporate breaks for movement into your schedule

Teachers can benefit from this resource

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important during lengthy instructional blocks.
• It's easy. Choose routines that are simple to perform and require little equipment or preparation.
• Make it fun: Integrate music, stories, or other themes that keep students engaged.
• Involve students: Have students choose or lead their preferred exercise.

For Administrators

• Gain support: Inform staff and their families about the advantages of taking a break to move.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily school breaks for all students.
• Professional development: Provide training and materials for teachers on how to confidently lead activity breaks.
• Track improvements: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

Virtual learning is not any different. Breaks for movement are equally important. Teachers can lead video-based activity sessions or give students movement challenges to do at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Will movement breaks waste time in the class?

However, research shows that students who exercise regularly are more focused, less disruptive, and more efficient during lessons. The movement breaks are an investment into learning and not an interruption.

"How do we find time for movement in an already packed schedule?"

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into transitions between subjects or following time that require intense concentration. Even a short activity can provide significant benefits.

What if the classroom space we have is limited?

A lot of movement exercises require minimal space or are done by standing in front of desks. In smaller classrooms, seated stretches, chair-yoga, or even simple hand and arm exercises can be beneficial.

The Greater Impact: Movement Breaks and School Culture

It's not just about individual benefits of integrating movement breaks, but also about establishing a culture in schools that promotes health, wellbeing, and lifelong education. Schools that focus on exercise are likely to have:

• Overall health improvement for the student and fewer absences
• Enhanced school spirit and community
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• Stronger academic outcomes

Other wellness-related initiatives, like education on nutrition, anti-bullying social-emotional education, social-emotional learning can be incorporated into movement breaks.

Tips to get started

1. Start slow: Start with just two or three breaks per day.
2. Be consistent: Make movement a regular part of your daily routine.
3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep the students interested.
4. Get Feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who enthusiastically participate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to implement movement breaks?

Most experts recommend a movement break every 30-60 minutes however, the time interval can be altered to meet the needs of each school's particular situation.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. The movement breaks are an addition to, but not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Is it appropriate for all ages of children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most effective movements require minimal or no equipment, such as scarves and music or balls.

Incorporating movement breaks into every school day is an easy, evidence-based strategy with far-reaching benefits. From improving academic performance to improving physical fitness to improving the mental health of students and improving classroom behavior It's clear from the research: movement matters. No matter if you're a teacher administrator, parent, or an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing movement breaks can be a significant investment in the next generation's success.

Include movement as an integral part of the school experience for all students. Students learn, develop and prosper by moving.