How to promote physical activity in schools is a hot topic. With childhood obesity on the rise and screen time taking over, it’s more important than ever to get kids moving. Promoting physical activity isn’t just about improving physical health, it also boosts mental wellbeing, academic performance, and social skills.
But with busy schedules and limited resources, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide packed with practical tips and ideas to help you create a school environment where movement and play are prioritised.
Practical Tips and Ideas to Promote Physical Activity
1. Go Beyond Traditional PE Lessons
While PE lessons are essential, they’re not the only way to get kids active. Think outside the box and incorporate movement throughout the school day. This could involve implementing short bursts of activity between lessons, like quick stretching exercises, integrating physical activity into lessons with active learning games or encouraging walking or cycling to school with initiatives like “Walk to School Week” or by setting up a cycle to school club.
Offering outdoor active trips is a great way to promote physical activity and teach students about the benefits of physical activity.
2. Empower Student Leadership
Give students ownership over their physical activity, this way it will be more enjoyable for them and give them a sense of freedom. Encourage students to start their own clubs based on their interests, like a dance group or a running club. You can implement peer leadership programmes, where older students can lead activities or mentor younger students. Empower students to organise and lead games during their break times!
3. Make it Fun and Engaging
Physical activity shouldn’t feel like a chore. Making it enjoyable for school students is vital for long-term involvement.
Offer a wide range of activities to cater to different interests and abilities, from traditional sports to dance, martial arts, and yoga. Use games and challenges to make movement fun and engaging. Most importantly, give students a say in the activities they participate in, allowing them to participate in activities that they are passionate about and enjoy.
4. Educate and Inspire
Promoting physical activity goes beyond simply providing opportunities, it’s also about educating students on the “why.” Lessons on health, nutrition, and the importance of physical activity are a crucial part of the curriculum. Invite guest speakers, like athletes or health professionals, to share their experiences and inspire students. Launch educational campaigns through school research projects, assemblies, and newsletters to raise awareness about the benefits of an active lifestyle.
5. Create an Active School Environment
Think of your school grounds as an extension of the classroom – a space where movement and play are encouraged. Outdoor activities have a major impact on students’ health and happiness, so make use of playgrounds and outdoor areas by providing a variety of equipment and markings to facilitate active play and learning.
This could include climbing frames, adventure trails, skipping ropes, basketball hoops, and designated areas for ball games.
Don’t forget about indoor spaces too! Utilise hallways and common areas for activities like indoor circuits, dance sessions, or even just encouraging movement between classes. Consider incorporating flexible seating options in classrooms, such as standing desks or exercise balls, to allow for movement even during lessons.
6. Utilise Technology
Technology can be a valuable tool in promoting activity. Utilise active video games, interactive whiteboards, and fitness trackers to engage students and encourage them to track their progress. Explore online resources that provide activity ideas, challenges, and educational materials. By embracing technology in a mindful way, you can enhance the experience of physical activity and make it more accessible and enjoyable for students.
7. Organise Active Events and Competitions
Generate excitement and encourage participation with sports days and inter-school competitions. Encourage a sense of community and healthy competition amongst students, parents and teachers. This will also help students develop strong bonds and build relationships with their peers.
Consider linking physical activity with fundraising for a good cause through charity events like fun runs or sponsored walks. These events not only promote physical health but also promote a sense of community and social responsibility.
8. Collaborate with Parents and the Community
Extend the promotion of physical activity beyond the school grounds by offering workshops on how to encourage physical activity at home. This will empower parents to promote a healthy and active lifestyle away from school. Collaborate with local sports clubs, leisure centres, or community organisations to provide opportunities for students to participate in activities outside of school, such as active family events, fun runs or family sports days.
9. Provide Inclusive Opportunities
Every student, regardless of their ability or background, should have the opportunity to participate in and enjoy physical activity. Offer modified activities and adaptive equipment to cater to students with disabilities. Provide a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests, cultural backgrounds, and skill levels. Promote a welcoming and inclusive environment where all students feel comfortable participating and celebrating their achievements.
10. Champion Active Role Models
Highlight the importance of physical activity by encouraging teachers and staff to participate in activities with students and be active role models. Recognise and celebrate students’ achievements in physical activity and promote active lifestyles by encouraging healthy habits and active lifestyles among staff and students.
Promote Activity with Outdoor School Trips with PGL!
Ready to take your school’s commitment to physical activity to the next level? PGL’s outdoor school trips offer a thrilling and educational way to get students moving while fostering teamwork, resilience, and a love for the outdoors. And with our new THRIVE! programme, you can combine exhilarating activities with a focus on mindfulness, helping students develop essential life skills while connecting with nature and themselves.
Contact us today to discover how PGL’s exciting adventures can complement your school’s physical activity initiatives and create unforgettable experiences for your students!
