Breaking Up Long Blocks with Physical Activity

In the current rapidly changing educational landscape the spotlight is focused on the holistic development of students. While academic rigor and scores on tests are still important, increasing body of research reveals an aspect that is often ignored: breaks for movement in schools. The need for organized, purposeful physical activity in the classroom has never been more vital. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are becoming the norm. This guide will discuss the reason why break time is an important part of every school day, and the benefits they offer and give practical suggestions for teachers and administrators.

What are the definitions of movement breaks in schools?

Movement breaks--also known as brain breaks activities breaks, brain breaks or physical activity breaks -- are brief periods during the school day when students are motivated to engage in physical activity. They can be anything from a few minutes of stretching or dancing to more formal exercises, games or mindfulness exercises which require movement. Unlike physical education (PE) classes that follow a predetermined curriculum, movement breaks are brief, regular interruptions of sedentary class time intended to boost students' energy and refresh their minds.

Example of Movement Breaks

• Jumping around or running in place jacks
• Yoga Poses or Stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games that require group participation.
• Guided breathing combined with light movement

Why movement breaks matter The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effects of daily exercise breaks for health is one of the strongest reasons for incorporating them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children and adolescents must engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. However, many students aren't meeting this standard because they are unable to spend enough time sitting in classrooms.

Movement breaks in schools provide numerous health advantages:

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

Regular movement also boosts the immune system and encourages the growth of healthy routines.

2. Benefits for the Brain and Education

Contrary to the common belief that more time spent in school will result in higher results, research has demonstrated that taking movement breaks during classes can enhance the academic level of students . Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain. This provides oxygen and nutrients essential for brain function.

The main academic benefits are:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• Focus on the task is increased.

Studies have found that students who get movement breaks return to tasks more focused and have higher achievement scores compared to those without such breaks.

3. Mental Well-being

Mental health is a matter that concerns many students. Stress, anxiety and depression are a major concern for youngsters of school age. Breaks in the gym play a crucial part in promoting emotional regulation and well-being.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Stress and anxiety are lessened.
• Self-esteem and mood improvement
• Endorphins are released and make you feel good
• Teamwork and social interaction

Physical activity during the day can assist to release the tension and stress. This can create positive atmosphere in the classroom.

All students benefit from breaks in movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students who suffer from ADHD, sensory processing issues or other special needs can benefit from movement breaks. Students with these conditions can benefit from physical activity to regulate their energy levels, increasing their executive functioning and completing academic assignments.

Inclusion Classrooms that are inclusive

Movement breaks are easily modified to meet the requirements of various types of age groups, abilities and learning styles. Movement breaks can be anything from simple chair stretching up to interactive group exercises. They make sure that each student can thrive.

How to incorporate movement into your training Breaks

Teachers can profit from this resource

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important in long blocks of instruction.
• Make it easy: Use routines that require no equipment or preparation, such as running, jumping or games that are quick and easy to play.
• Fun: Integrate music, storytelling, or themes to keep students engaged.
• Students should be involved: Let students suggest or lead favorite movements.

For Administrators

• Build support: Educate staff and families on the benefits of taking breaks to move.
• Create guidelines: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate them.
• Professional development: Provide training and tools for teachers to be able to effectively lead activity breaks.
• Track the progress of your practice: Collect and track feedback to improve practices.

For Remote or Hybrid Learning

Virtual learning is not any different. Breaks for movement are equally crucial. Teachers can facilitate live activities on video calls or assign movement challenges for students to complete at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movement breaks waste instructional time?"

Research shows that students who exercise regularly are more focused and productive in classes. Breaks for movement are an investment in learning, not distracting.

"How do we find the time to move during a packed schedule?"

The duration of movement breaks is usually 2-5 minutes--and can be built into transitions between subjects or during time that require intense concentration. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable benefits.

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

Some activities can be performed sitting next to desks or in a tiny space. In small classrooms, seated stretching, chair-yoga or simple arm and hand exercises can be beneficial.

The impact of movement breaks on the school culture

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about the individual benefit; it's about creating an environment that promotes wellbeing, health and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. Schools that emphasize movement tend to experience:

• Healthier overall for students and less absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are increased
• Higher teacher satisfaction and lower rates of burnout
• Academic results that are more impressive

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

Tips for Getting Started

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with one or two movement breaks a day and build from there.
2. Keep it regular. Include movement in your daily routine.
3. Be imaginative: Rotate the activities to keep the students interested.
4. Receive feedback from teachers and students: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate your accomplishments: Recognize classrooms that are enthusiastically participating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools institute breaks for movement?

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes, but the frequency can be adjusted to suit each school's unique needs.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

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

Is it appropriate for all ages of children?

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

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. A lot of effective activities for movement require no equipment or only simple objects like balls, scarves, or music.

Integrating breaks for movement into each school day can have a wide variety of benefits. From improving academic performance and physical fitness to improving the mental health of students and improving classroom behavior The research proves that movement is important. Whether you're a teacher, administrator or parent, or even a policymaker, advocating for and implementing breaks for movement is a way to invest in the next generation's success.

Making movement a vital aspect of the school day for all students. Learners develop and flourish by moving.