Learning on Your Feet: Incorporating Physical Activity into the K—8 Classroom

In this much-needed book, you’ll learn how incorporating physical activity into the classroom can improve students’ engagement, achievement, and overall wellness. Students typically spend most of the day sitting at their desks, and many don’t have recess or PE, yet research shows that regular exercise helps stimulate brain function and improve skills such as reading, critical thinking, organization, and focus. Authors Brad Johnson and Melody Jones, who have consulted with schools across the globe on fitness issues, offer a variety of games and activities you can use to integrate exercise into any class or subject area. You’ll learn how to:

• Create an "active classroom" with active workstations and fitness areas to keep students alert and engaged throughout the day;
• Gradually introduce physical activities into your everyday classroom routine;
• Use interactive technology to teach your students about health and fitness;
• Try out a variety of activities and exercises to reduce stress, help students focus, promote teamwork, build core strength and balance, and more;
• Make STEM classes more exciting with hands-on activities, projects, and real-world problems, all while getting your students up and moving.

These activities are easy to implement and are designed to improve one’s physical and mental capabilities, as well as increase enjoyment of learning for happier, healthier, higher-achieving students.

Brad Johnson is an international speaker in the field of education. He recently spent time in Malaysia developing a fitness diploma with their Ministry of Education.

Melody Jones is certified through the National Academy of Sports Medicine as a Youth Exercise Specialist, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, and Weight Loss Specialist.