List of Simple Exercises for Kids in School
Studying is an integral part of student’s lives but with time, we have moved on from the traditional school learning approach. Instead of focusing solely on academics, modern schools also take physical health seriously. Exercise and physical activities are linked with improvement in academics and overall student behaviour. It is recommended for kids between the ages of 3-5 to be active throughout the day while those between 6-17 ages should engage in physical exercise for a minimum of 60 minutes. Read the article below to get a comprehensive look into the exercise for kids in schools with their benefits.
Significance Of Exercise for Kids In School
Schools are no strangers to physical exercises as most timetables have PE classes. It has been noted that with the advent of mobile phones, iPads and other digital devices, inactivity has set in. Children are getting used to their sedentary lifestyle. This can lead to dangerous consequences affecting both physical and mental health. To lessen the risk, teachers should incorporate simple exercises in the daily routine of the school kids. Let’s look at some of the benefits of exercising every day.
- Muscle and Bone Health: Regular exercise leads to stronger muscles and better bone health. Some specific exercises lead to an increase in bone density which reduces the risk of osteoporosis in adulthood. Strong muscles offer protection from injuries.
- Weight Management: Physical exercise when combined with positive eating habits can result in healthy weight maintenance. There will be a lesser risk of obesity and other related health problems.
- Coordination and Motor Skills: Good motor and coordination skills are critical for doing everyday tasks. Whether it’s walking, running or climbing stairs, students can attain balance by doing regular exercise.
- Managing Stress & Anxiety: It is normal for students to feel stressed out due to homework and other academic pressures. Physical exercise helps in reducing such mental issues. It releases feel-good hormones and decreases stress hormone cortisol levels.
- Energy Level: Exercise improves the mood as it releases endorphins which helps kids get restful sleep. Due to this, kids are more alert during the day, resulting in improved energy levels.
- Attention and Memory: Concentration and focus are important factors in achieving good grades. Unfortunately, many kids suffer from low concentration and memory retention levels. Regular exercise leads to improved mental alertness and concentration. It also assists in increasing the oxygen level transferred to the brain.
What Are Some Simple Exercises for Kids?
Physical exercises are crucial for maintaining fitness regardless of age but are even more important during childhood. This is why schools have an important role to play. They have to schedule age-appropriate exercises to get students excited. Even something as simple as running, skipping, jogging and stretching can help manage weight, improve blood circulation, increase endurance and ease muscle tension. But before jumping straight to the exercise, let’s understand the types of physical activities.
Types Of Exercise For Kids In School
School kids can be moody and uninterested if the exercises are not motivating enough. They should not only be beneficial but fun too. Sports and exercise-based games are excellent ways to maintain fitness and shed excess energy. Most physical activities and exercises can be categorised into 3 broad categories given in the table below.
Types of Exercises | Duration | Examples |
Aerobic Activity | 3 Days a Week | Running, Walking, Skipping, Dancing |
Bone Strengthening Activity | 3 Days a Week | Skip Rope, Jumping, Running, Exercise |
Muscle Strengthening Activity | 3 Days a Week | Push-ups, Climbing, Squats, Resistance Bands |
List Of Exercises For Kids
There are various exercises that schools can undertake in the PE class. They do not require complex apparatus or even large spaces and are simple. Since everyone, especially growing kids, requires at least an hour of physical activity, it should be included in the student’s daily routine. Below is a list of exercises that are simple and effective for school kids.
- Running: A full body activity, running helps with muscle strength, coordination and brain.
- Jumping: Jumping activities are extremely engaging for kids and help build muscle and bone strength.
- Jogging: Jogging is usually a part of the warm-up to increase stamina and reduce fatigue.
- Situps: Perfect for older school kids, sit-ups strengthen core muscles and improve balance and coordination.
- Stretching: Stretching is a simple activity that increases flexibility and helps correct posture.
- Skipping: Generally part of morning exercise, skipping regulates heart rate and increases stamina.
- Squats: Squats focus on upper and lower muscles and are excellent for losing weight and improving blood circulation.
- Bear Crawl: Walking on all fours on the floor, bear crawl builds core muscle strength.
- Crab Walk: This fun activity improves muscle strength and requires kids to walk with their torso up and hands and feet on the ground.
- Balancing on One Toe: Balancing on a single toe, this game is good for motor skills and muscle coordination.
- Ball Games: There are several types of indoor ball games which are beneficial for hand and eye coordination and the development of social skills.
- Cycling: A workout for thighs, ankles and legs, cycling improves joint mobility and reduces stress levels.
Bottom Line
We hope by reading through this comprehensive write-up, you have understood the alarming need for the inclusion of exercise for kids in school. The impact of these activities has a sweeping effect on academic performance as well as on physical and mental health. At K.R. Mangalam World School, Best Private CBSE School in Gurgaon we take special care of fulfilling these needs. Thanks to the specialised curriculum that goes beyond academic learning, we make sure students enjoy their school duration while being physically fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some exercises for kids in school?
Some simple exercises for kids include running, jumping, skipping, doing sit-ups, cycling and frog jumps.
Does K.R. Mangalam World School has a PE class?
Absolutely yes. At K.R. Mangalam World School physical education is an integral part of the curriculum. They have world-class sports facilities with qualified coaches and skilled instructors.
How can schools include exercise in a student’s school life?
Schools can encourage physical activity by making it a part of the curriculum. They can offer physical education classes and arrange sports events in the school.
How does exercise positively impact the kids?
Exercise has a positive impact on the physical and mental health of a child. They help improve weight, attention span, energy level, flexibility, cardiovascular health, muscle and bone strength.