Overcoming Resistance: Getting Staff on Board with Movement Breaks

In today's rapidly evolving education system the spotlight is shifting to the overall development of students. While academic test scores and rigor remain crucial, an increasing amount of body of research reveals an aspect that is often ignored: breaks for movement in schools. Since sedentary classroom routines as well as increasing screen time becomes the commonplace, the need for structured, purposeful physical activity during the school day has never been greater. This guide will explore why movement breaks are an essential part of any school day, the advantages they bring, and offer practical strategies for teachers and administrators.

What are the movement breaks in schools?

Movement breaks--also known as brain breaks break, activity breaks, or physical activity breaks--are brief periods during the school day when students are required to participate in physical activities. They can be anything from just a few minutes of dancing or stretching to more organized exercises, games, or even mindfulness activities that require moving. Contrary to physical education (PE) classes that adhere to a prescribed schedule, these breaks are brief, regular interruptions of sedentary class time designed to help students reenergize and refocus their minds.

Example of Movement Breaks

• In place running or jumping Jacks
• Yoga or stretching poses
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Games for groups that require movement
• Breathing guided by a guide and light movement

Why movement breaks matter: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the strongest reasons to incorporate movement breaks is their positive impact on physical well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that kids and teens engage in 60 minutes of regular exercise. However, many students aren't meeting this standard due to long hours spent sitting in classrooms.

Breaks in school for movement can provide a variety of health benefits:

• Enhance the cardiovascular fitness
• Enhance flexibility and muscle strength
• Healthy weight loss: Encourage healthy weight loss
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular exercise can also boost your immune system and promotes lifestyle changes that are healthy for your future.

2. Benefits for the brain and education

Contrary to the widely held belief that spending more time in school will result in higher results, research has demonstrated that taking breaks to move during classes can enhance academic performance . Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain. This helps deliver oxygen and nutrients essential for cognitive functioning.

The most important academic benefits are:

• Improved attention and focus
• Enhanced memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement that is more active
• Increased the amount of time spent on task.

Research has shown that students who get 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 a matter that affects a lot of students. Anxiety, stress and depression are a major concern for students who are in school. Breaks in the gym play a crucial role in supporting emotional regulation and mental well-being.

Benefits for the emotional side include:

• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Improvement in mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Social interaction opportunities and collaboration

Exercise during the school day provides a healthy outlet for pent-up anger, frustration or anxiety, assisting to create a more comfortable and positive environment in the classroom.

All learners benefit from breaks for movement

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

The benefits of movement breaks are especially beneficial to students suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), difficulties with sensory processing, or with other disabilities. Physical activity can help students control their energy levels, improve executive function, and help them better take on academic tasks.

Designing inclusive classrooms

The movement breaks can be easily adapted to meet the requirements of different age groups, abilities and learning styles. The types of breaks offered be anything from simple chair stretching through interactive group exercises. They ensure that every student can succeed.

How to incorporate breaks for exercise into your daily routine

For Teachers

• Set a schedule: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes. This is especially important during long instructional blocks.
• Keep it simple: Use routines that require minimal equipment or preparation--think stretching, jumping or games that are quick and easy to play.
• Have fun with it: Use music, stories or themes to entice students.
• Engage students: Have students choose or lead their own favorite exercise.

For Administrators

• Gain support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking movement breaks.
• Establish policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate these breaks.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with the necessary training and tools to conduct breaks with confidence.
• Track improvements: Collect and track feedback to improve practice.

For Remote or Hybrid Learning

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

Addressing Common Concerns

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

However research has shown that students who regularly move are more concentrated, less disruptive and more efficient during lessons. Breaks for movement are an Investment into learning and not distracting.

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

Movement breaks can be short--just 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into transitions between subjects or during periods that require intense concentration. Even a short activity can provide tangible advantages.

What if the classroom space we have isn't enough?

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

The impact of movement breaks on School Culture

It's not just about individual benefits of integrating movement breaks; it's also about establishing a culture within schools that values wellbeing, health, and lifelong education. Schools that are focused on movement tend to:

• Students with healthier health and lower absences
• Community involvement and school spirit are boosted
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• Higher academic performance

Breaks for movement can also be aligned with other wellness programs including social-emotional learning as well as nutrition education and programs that combat bullying.

Get Started with These Tips

1. Begin slow: Start with just one or two breaks per day.
2. Keep it consistent. Include movement in your routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students entertained and engaged.
4. Ask for feedback: Ask students and teachers for input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who enthusiastically participate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools institute breaks for movement?

Most experts suggest a move break every 30-60 minutes however, the time interval can be adjusted to suit the needs of each school's particular situation.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Movement breaks are a supplement to, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Are exercise breaks suitable for all ages?

Yes! Movement breaks can be tailored for preschoolers, elementary middle, 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 scarves, balls, or even music.

Incorporating the benefits of movement into each schoolday is an easy method that is based on research and has a wide range of benefits. The research suggests that physical activity is crucial for many reasons which include improving academic performance, physical health and classroom behavior. You can invest in the future of your students, whether you're an administrator or teacher or parent, or even a politician.

Let's make it a non-negotiable part of every student's school experience. Why? Because when kids move they learn, develop, and thrive.