Promoting fitness within schools is being over looked and because of this, more and more teachers are out sick, their energy levels are at an all time low, and on top of it all, the students are less focused and having difficulty learning. These are all symptoms of inactivity and a change needs to be made. Making a major difference in your school with this one simple concept can be quite easy, so let’s get your students and teachers moving more! The benefits are clear for students since those who are physically active in appropriate ways are much more focused and willing to learn when it’s time to do so. You’ll see a decrease in teacher absences due to illness when they become more fit, and you’ll also see their ability to handle stress improve as physical activity provides great relief. Promoting fitness within your school is the key to having more effective teachers and students. The healthier people are, the more likely they are to utilize their energy properly and perform their jobs or learn at an optimal level.

Activate Students
• Allow more time before, during, and after school for physical activity.
• Host the Morning Mile fitness program at your school. This allows students start each day in a healthy/active way. Teachers can participate too.
• Encourage teachers to allow the children to get up and move as a part of regular educational lessons—Integrating physical activity into what is being taught is a great way for kids to be more receptive to the lesson. Download the Energizers active learning curriculum by visiting the BeActiveNC.org web site now.
• Host more field days.
• Schedule field trips that include physical activity.
• Provide fun fitness tools such as hoola hoops, jump ropes and balls to be used during recess.
• Ensure each student at your school has the opportunity to engage in at least 30 minuets of physical activity each day.

Activate Teachers
• Encourage active lunch breaks (take a walk, stretch, or practice yoga).
• Promote the Morning Mile for teachers too. They can do this before or after school. The teacher's Morning Mile can start 20 minutes before the student's Morning Mile time begins!
• Post information in the break room about local 5k’s or physical activities
• Host a weekly group fitness class (check with local fitness centers to see if they would be willing to send a trainer).
• Bring a guest lecturer once a month, solicit the help of fitness professionals, doctors, and nutritionists—they are a great resource of health education.