Integrate Classroom Physical Activity in Schools

Abstract

The 2018 Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth reported that only 24% of U.S. children and youth ages 6 to 17 meet the national recommendation of 60 minutes of daily physical activity, grading the nation at a D-. Schools can help students meet this national recommendation, as close to 60 million children and adolescents attend school. The purpose of this article is to explain the health and academic benefits of classroom physical activity, describe strategies and resources to help schools integrate classroom physical activity throughout the school day, and highlight the possible role of physical educators in supporting the implementation of classroom physical activity strategies. Throughout, there will be quotations with practical ideas and shared learning from state and local practitioners across the country who support and implement classroom physical activity.