Success Metrics for School-Based Physical Activity

The overall development of the child is becoming increasingly important in the current rapidly evolving education system. While academic rigorousness and the scores on tests remain important, a growing body research highlights an element that is often ignored: breaks for movement in schools. The need for organized and purposeful physical activities in the classroom has never been more vital. Classrooms that are confined to a single room and a growing amount of screen time is becoming the standard. In this guide, we'll explore why movement breaks should be a key element of every school's daily schedule, uncover the science behind their advantages, and offer concrete strategies for teachers and administrators.

What Are Movement Breaks in Schools?

Motion breaks--also known as brain breaks break, activity breaks, or physical activity breaks--are short breaks during the school day when students are required to participate in physical activity. They can be anything from short periods of dancing or stretching, to more organized games, exercises or even mindfulness-based activities that require movement. Contrary to physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed curriculum, movement breaks are quick, often frequent interruptions of sedentary class time intended to boost students' energy and refocus their minds.

Example of Movement Breaks

• Running or jumping jacks in place
• Yoga poses or stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effects of daily physical activity breaks for the health of a person is among the main reasons to incorporate them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children engage in 60 minutes of regular physical activity. But, many children aren't meeting this standard due to long hours spent in class.

Breaks in school for movement offer several health benefits:

• Increase the cardiovascular fitness
• Improve flexibility and muscle strength
• Help with weight loss
• Fighting childhood obesity

Regular exercise also improves your immune system and promotes healthy habits for life.

2. Benefits for the Brain and Education

Contrary to the widely held belief that more time spent in school leads to better results, research has demonstrated that taking movement breaks during class can improve academic performance . Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain, which delivers nutrients and oxygen that are essential for cognitive functioning.

The main academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Memory retention is improved
• Better problem-solving skills
• Higher engagement and participation
• More focused on-task behavior

According to research, students who take movement breaks are more focused and achieve higher scores than students who don't.

3. Mental and Emotional Well-being

The mental wellbeing of students is a growing concern, with stress, anxiety and depression affecting many school-age children. The role of exercise in managing emotions and improving mental health is well known.

Emotional Benefits are:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improved mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Opportunity for social interaction and teamwork

The physical activity you do during the day can assist to release pent up energy anger, stress or anxiety. This creates positive atmosphere in the classroom.

Moving Breaks to Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students suffering from ADHD, sensory processing issues or other disabilities may benefit from breaks in movement. These students will benefit from exercise to regulate their energy levels, increasing their executive functioning and completing academic tasks.

Inclusion Classrooms that are inclusive

Movement breaks can easily be adapted to meet the requirements of various types of age groups, abilities and learning styles. From simple chair stretching to interactive group activities movement breaks guarantee that every child gets the chance to thrive.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Movement Breaks

Teachers can benefit from this toolkit

• Set a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, especially in long blocks of instruction.
• It's easy. Choose routines that are simple to complete and require minimal equipment or preparation.
• Have fun with it: Make use of stories, music or themes to engage students.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead favorite movement activities.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and families about the benefits of regular breaks for movement.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily exercise breaks across the school.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with the necessary training and tools to conduct activity breaks confidently.
• Monitor the progress: Collect feedback and track outcomes to refine practices.

Learn remotely or through hybrid learning

Virtual learning is no different. Movement breaks are equally important. Teachers can facilitate live activities via video calls or provide movement challenges for students to work on at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movements breaks waste instructional time?"

Research shows that students who exercise regularly are more focused and productive in class. Breaks for movement can be an investment in learning, not a distraction.

How can we fit in the time needed to move, when our schedule is so packed?

You can include short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule in order to switch between topics or after intense concentration. Even a short activity can provide noticeable advantages.

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

Some activities can be performed sitting next to desks or in a smaller space. Seated stretches, chair yoga or even simple arm and hand movements can be effective in classrooms with small spaces.

The Impact of Movement Breaks and School Culture

Incorporating breaks for movement isn't just about the individual benefit; it's about creating the school's culture of wellbeing, health and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Healthier overall for students and fewer absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are increased
• Greater satisfaction of teachers and lower rates of burnout
• Stronger academic outcomes

Other wellness-related initiatives, like bullying prevention, nutrition education and social-emotional learning, as well as social-emotional learning can be incorporated into the breaks in your exercise.

Start with these Tips

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with one or two break breaks per day, and then increase the number of breaks.
2. Keep it constant. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep the students interested.
4. Get feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your success: Recognize classrooms and students who are enthusiastically involved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Experts recommend that schools have a 30-minute break for movement. However, the frequency of breaks can be altered depending on the school's requirements.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Breaks for movement are a complement to, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are fitness breaks appropriate for everyone?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Certain of the most efficient exercises require little or no equipment, like scarves and music or balls.

Incorporating movement breaks into every schoolday is a simple method that is based on research and has a wide range of advantages. From improving academic performance to improving physical health to supporting the mental health of students and improving classroom behavior It's clear from the research that movement is important. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, parent, or the policymaker, advocating for and implementing regular breaks in your routine can be a significant investment in the next generation's success.

Include movement as an integral aspect of the school day for every student. Students learn, grow and prosper by moving.