Using Technology to Track Physical Activity in Schools

In today's rapidly evolving educational environment, the spotlight is increasingly focused on the holistic growth of students. While academic rigorousness and the scores on tests remain important, a growing body of research reveals an aspect which is often neglected: breaks for movement in schools. With sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time becomes the standard, the demand for structured, purposeful physical activity 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, and the benefits they provide, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the movement breaks in schools?

Movement Breaks, also known as Brain breaks, Activity breaks or Physical Activity breaks, are brief periods of time during the school day where students are encouraged engage with physical activity. These breaks can range from just a few minutes of dancing or stretching to more formal games, exercises, or even mindfulness activities that involve moving. Breaks for movement, in contrast to classes in physical education that adhere to the same curriculum, are frequently brief interruptions to sedentary class time. They help refocus students' minds and reenergize them.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• Jumping around or running in place over jacks
• Yoga poses or stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games that require group participation.
• Light movement

The reason why movement breaks are important The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest reasons to incorporate movement breaks is the positive effect they have on physical health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children get 60 minutes of physical activity. Yet, many students fall short of this recommendation due to long hours spent in class.

School breaks during movement can provide a variety of health advantages:

• Improve your the cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and strength of muscles
• Weight management: Support healthy weight loss
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular exercise boosts the immune system, and also encourages the growth of healthy habits.

2. Benefits for the Brain and Education

In contrast to the popular belief that spending more time in school leads to better results, research has demonstrated that taking breaks to move during class can improve academic performance . Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients which are vital for the functioning of the brain.

The main academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Enhanced memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• A greater focus on the task

The results of studies have shown that students who are given breaks to move return to work more focused and have better achievement scores than those who don't get such breaks.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is an issue that concerns many students. Anxiety, stress and depression impact a lot of children who are in school. The role of exercise in regulating emotions and promoting mental health is well known.

The benefits for emotional well-being include:

• Stress reduction and anxiety reduction
• Self-esteem and improved mood
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction and teamwork

Physical activity during the school day provides a healthy outlet for pent-up anger, frustration or anxiety, assisting to create a more positive school environment.

All learners benefit from movement breaks

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Movement breaks are particularly beneficial for those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and difficulties with sensory processing, or with other disabilities. Physical activity can help students manage their energy levels, boost executive function, and better take on academic tasks.

Create Inclusive Classrooms

The movement breaks are easily modified to accommodate the needs of various types of age groups, abilities and learning styles. The types of breaks offered range from simple chair stretches all the way to group-based interactive exercises. They make sure that each 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, especially during long instructional blocks.
• Simple. Choose routines that are easy to do and require little equipment or preparation.
• Have fun with it: Use music, stories, or themes to get students involved.
• Involve students: Let students suggest or lead their favorite movement exercises.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and families about the benefits of movement breaks.
• 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.
• Track progress: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

Virtual learning is not any different. The breaks for movement are equally crucial. Teachers may conduct video-based activities or give students movement tasks to complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

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

Contrary to popular belief, research shows that students who move regularly are more concentrated, less disruptive and more efficient during lessons. The movement breaks are an investment into learning and not a distraction.

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

You can incorporate brief breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule in order to switch between subjects or to recover from intensive concentration. Even short activities have obvious benefits.

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

Some exercises can be completed sitting next to desks or in a smaller space. Seated stretches, chair yoga, or even simple arm and hand movements are effective in small classrooms.

The Impact of School Culture and Movement Breaks

It's not only about the individual benefits of integrating exercise breaks into your school day; it's about establishing a culture within schools that values health, wellbeing, and lifelong education. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Overall health improvement for the student and less absences
• School spirit and community involvement are increased
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• Higher academic performance

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

Tips to get started

1. Start slowly: Start with just one or two breaks throughout the day.
2. Keep it regular. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate the activities to keep students engaged.
4. Receive feedback from teachers and students: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who enthusiastically participate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools introduce movement breaks?

Experts recommend that schools take a 30-minute break to walk around. However, the duration of breaks can be adjusted according to each school's needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

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

Are fitness breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! The timing of breaks for movement can be customized for preschoolers, elementary, middle, and high school students.

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Some of the most efficient movements require no or little equipment, including scarves and music or balls.

Incorporating breaks for movement into the daily school routine can provide a vast array of advantages. From improving academic performance and physical health, to promoting wellbeing and behavior in the classroom The research proves: movement matters. No matter if you're a teacher administrator, parent, or policymaker, advocating for and implementing regular breaks in your routine can be a significant investment in the next generation's success.

Let's make movement a non-negotiable element of every student's educational experience. Why? Because when kids move, they learn, grow, and thrive.