From Resistance to Routine: Making Movement Normal

The holistic development of the student is becoming more important in the rapidly changing education system. While academic rigor and scores on tests remain important, a growing body of research reveals an aspect which is often neglected: breaks for movement in schools. The need for organized, purposeful physical activity in the classroom has never been more important. The use of classrooms with a fixed schedule and the increase in screen time are now the commonplace. This guide will explore the reasons why breaks for movement are an essential part of any school day, what benefits they offer and give practical suggestions for administrators and teachers.

What are movement breaks in the Schools?

Movement breaks--also known as breaks for the brain activities breaks, brain breaks or physical activity breaks -- are brief periods during the school day when students are encouraged to engage in physical activity. These breaks can include dancing, stretching, structured games or exercises, or mindfulness-based activities. Unlike physical education (PE) classes, which follow a set schedule, these breaks are short, frequent interruptions to sedentary classroom time designed to help students reenergize and refocus their minds.

Examples of movement breaks

• Jumping jacks or running in place
• Yoga or stretching exercises
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Guided breathing paired with light movement

Why movement breaks matter: The science

1. Physical Health Benefits

The positive effect of regular exercise breaks on the health of a person is among the strongest reasons for incorporating them into your routine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that adolescents and children engage in 60 minutes of daily physical activity. A majority of students fail to adhere to this advice because they are occupied for long hours in school.

Movement breaks in schools provide numerous health benefits:

• Improve cardiovascular fitness
• Enhance flexibility and muscle strength
• Help with weight loss
• Obesity in children is a problem

Regular exercise also improves the immune system and helps in the creation of long-term healthy habits.

2. Cognitive and Academic Benefits

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 . Exercise increases circulation of blood to your brain. This delivers oxygen and nutrients that are vital for cognitive function.

The most important academic benefits include:

• Focus and attention can be improved
• Improved memory retention
• Better problem-solving skills
• Participation and engagement
• An increase in on-task behavior

According to research the students who have movement breaks are more focused and score higher than those who do not.

3. Well-being of the Mind and Emotions

Mental health is an issue that affects a lot of students. Stress, anxiety and depression are a major concern for youngsters of school age. The movement breaks play an important part in promoting emotional regulation and mental well-being.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Improvement in mood and self-esteem
• Release of "feel good" endorphins
• Teamwork and social interaction

Exercise during the school day can provide an opportunity to release any excess anger, frustration or anxiety, which can help to create a positive school environment.

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) and problems with sensory processing or any other needs. Students with these conditions will benefit from exercise in regulating their energy levels, increasing the ability to concentrate and taking part in academic activities.

Create inclusive classrooms

Since movement breaks are adaptable and customizable, they can be adapted to fit the needs of various age groups physical capabilities, as well as learning styles. From simple chair stretches to group-based activities that are interactive, breaks in the form of movement guarantee each student is able to excel.

How to incorporate movement into your training Breaks

Teachers can profit from this resource

• Create a calendar. Include movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, particularly during long blocks of instruction.
• Keep it simple: Use routines that require no equipment or preparation, such as jumping, stretching, or quick games.
• Enjoy it: Use music, stories or themes to entice students.
• Involve students: Have students choose or lead their favorite exercise.

For Administrators

• Support for building: Educate staff and families on the benefits of taking breaks to move.
• Create policies: Encourage daily movement breaks in schools or mandate them.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with information and training to guide breaks with confidence.
• Track progress: Collect and track feedback to improve your practices.

For Hybrid or Remote Learning

Virtual learning is no different. The breaks for movement are just as important. Teachers can either lead video-based activity sessions or provide students with movement-related challenges to complete at their homes.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Won't movements breaks waste instructional time?"

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

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

The duration of movement breaks is usually 2-5 minutes. They can be integrated into the transition between subjects or following time that require intense concentration. Even short activities can bring significant benefits.

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

Many movement activities require little space or can be done standing beside desks. Chair yoga, seated stretches or even basic arm and hand movements can be effective in classrooms with small spaces.

The Broader Impact: School Culture and Movement Breaks

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about personal benefits, it's about fostering an environment that promotes well-being, health and lifelong learning. Schools that focus on movement tend to:

• Healthier overall for students and fewer absences
• Improved school spirit and community
• Teacher satisfaction and burnout rates lower
• Stronger academic outcomes

Other wellness initiatives such as education on nutrition, anti-bullying social-emotional education, social-emotional-learning can be aligned with breaks for movement.

Tips to Get Started

1. Start with a small amount: Begin with one or two breaks during the day and increase it from there.
2. Be regular: Make movement a regular part of the daily routine.
3. Be creative: Rotate activities to keep students entertained and engaged.
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 best time to introduce movement breaks?

Most experts recommend a movement break every 30-60 minutes but the timing can be adjusted to suit the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. No. Movement breaks are not a substitute for structured exercise. They are intended to supplement it.

Are fitness breaks appropriate for all ages?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Many effective movement activities need no equipment, or just simple items like scarves, balls, or even music.

Incorporating movements into your school day is an easy, evidence-based strategy with far-reaching benefits. The research shows that exercise is essential for a variety of reasons that include improving academic performance, physical health and classroom behavior. You can make a difference in the lives of your students whether you're an administrator or teacher, a parent or a politician.

Let's make movement a non-negotiable element of each student's school experience. Why? Because when kids move they learn, improve and flourish.