Beyond the Gym: Non-Traditional Physical Activity

In the current rapidly changing educational landscape The spotlight is now shifting to the overall growth of students. The quality of their education and the scores they score are important however, a growing amount of research reveals a key element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. With sedentary classrooms and more screen time are becoming the norm, the need for structured, purposeful physical activities during the school day is never more urgent. This guide will explore the reasons why breaks for movement are an important part of every school day, the advantages they bring, and offer practical strategies for administrators and teachers.

What are movement breaks at schools?

Movement Breaks, also known as Brain breaks, Activity breaks or Physical Activity breaks, are short periods in the school day when students are encouraged to engage with physical activity. These breaks can range from short periods of dancing or stretching, to more formal exercises, games, or even mindfulness activities which require moving. Movement breaks, unlike physical education classes that follow an established curriculum, are often, short interruptions of classes that are sedentary. They can help students refocus their' minds and reenergize them.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• In place running or jumping over jacks
• Stretching or Yoga Poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the most compelling reasons to incorporate movement breaks is their positive impact on physical well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children engage in 60 minutes of regular physical activity. A lot of students don't adhere to this advice because they spend long hours in school.

School-based movement breaks Offer Several Health Benefits

• Increase cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and strength of muscles
• Help with weight loss
• Help combat childhood obesity

Regular exercise boosts the immune system and encourages the creation of long-term healthy lifestyles.

2. Advantages to the brain and education

Contrary to the common belief that more time spent in school results in better grades, research has shown that taking breaks to move in class can boost the academic level of students . Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain. This provides oxygen and nutrients essential for cognitive functioning.

The main academic benefits include:

• Increased focus and attention
• Memory retention is increased
• Better problem-solving skills
• Engagement and participation
• Increased on-task behavior

Research has shown that students who receive breaks to move return to work with greater focus and demonstrate higher achievement scores compared to students who do not have such breaks.

3. Well-being in the Mental and Emotional sphere

Mental health is a concern that concerns many students. Stress, anxiety and depression impact a lot of children who are in school. Movement breaks play a significant role in supporting emotional regulation and well-being.

The benefits for emotional well-being include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Endorphins release to make you feel good
• Teamwork and social interaction

Exercise during the school day provides an opportunity to release any excess energy, frustration, or worry, helping to create a more positive classroom environment.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students suffering from ADHD and sensory processing disorders or other disabilities may benefit from a break in their movement. Students with these conditions can benefit from physical activity by regulating their energy levels, improving the ability to concentrate and taking part in academic assignments.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

Because movement breaks can be easily adapted and customizable, they can be adapted to fit the needs of different age groups and physical abilities as well as learning methods. From simple stretches on the chair to group-based activities that are interactive, break breaks are designed to guarantee every student gets the chance to succeed.

How do you incorporate breaks for movement into your schedule

For Teachers

• Set a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important during long instructional blocks.
• Simple: Use routines that require only minimal equipment or preparation - think jumping, stretching, or quick games.
• Have fun with it! Use music, stories or themes to engage students.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead their favorite movement exercises.

For Administrators

• Get 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 tools for teachers to lead activities with confidence.
• Track improvements: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

Learn from home or via hybrid learning

Virtual learning is not any different. Breaks for movement are equally important. Teachers can either lead video-based activity sessions or give students movement tasks they can complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

Will movement breaks waste time in the classroom?

Studies show that students who move regularly are more focused and productive in class. The movement breaks are an Investment in learning, not an interruption.

"How can we create the time to move during a packed schedule?"

It is possible to incorporate short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your routine, either to transition between topics or after an intense focus. Even short activity has noticeable benefits.

"What do we do if our classroom isn't enough?"

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

The impact of movement breaks on the School Culture

It's not just about individual benefits of integrating movement breaks, but also about creating a culture in schools that values wellbeing, health and lifelong learning. Schools that prioritize exercise are likely to have:

• Students with healthier health and lower absences
• School spirit and community involvement are increased
• Rates of teacher burnout and satisfaction lower
• More academically successful

Other wellness initiatives such as bullying prevention, nutrition education and social-emotional learning, as well as social-emotional-learning could be linked to movement breaks.

Start with these Tips

1. Start small: Begin with one or two movement breaks a day, and then increase the number of breaks.
2. Be regular: Make movement a regular part of the daily routine.
3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Solicit feedback: Ask students and teachers for feedback and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms that have enthusiastically participated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the recommended frequency for schools to implement breaks for movement?

Experts recommend that schools take a 30-minute break to move around. But, the frequency of breaks can be altered according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. There is no need to. Breaks in movement aren't a substitute for organized physical education. They are designed to complement it.

Are movement breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

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

Incorporating movement breaks into every schoolday is a simple, evidence-based strategy with far-reaching benefits. Research shows that physical activity is crucial for a myriad of reasons that include improving academic performance as well as physical health and classroom behaviour. If you're a teacher administrator, parent, or an advocate for policy, promoting and implementing breaks for movement is an investment in the success of the next generation.

Let's make moving a mandatory part of every student's school experience. Because when students move they learn, improve, and thrive.