150 minutes of physical activity in schools

Physical education and recess used to be a common part of the school day. But times have changed. With the pressure to cut costs and improve scores on standard tests, schools slowly reduced or removed any type of physical activity or education.

That pressure to perform also resulted in lower levels of fitness. In 2007-2008, only 23 percent of Delaware students taking part in FITNESSGRAM scored in the “Healthy Fit Zone.”

Some believe it’s not the school’s job to get kids active. They should be teaching math and science not fitness and exercise. However, recent studies are linking physical activity with academic success. Doing 150 minutes a week (or 30 minutes a day) in school is a worthy investment in improving a child’s health and grades.

Physical Activity Improves Test Scores

In the past five years, new studies have shown physical activity can help students stay focused, get better test scores and behave in class. Read More

Delaware Schools Doing 150 Minutes

Many schools in Delaware are creatively reaching 150 minutes. Activities such as recess walking programs and exercise bikes in classrooms are just a few ideas taking place today. View the Interactive 150 Minutes Map to get ideas and inspired!

Share Your Success
Let us know how your school or district is incorporating 150 minutes of physical education or activity. We will add it to the 150 Minutes Map. Submit Your Story