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Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v07n06)
Gettin' Ripped in Ripple - Don't Regress. . . Keep Recess - by Laura Minor
posted: Mar. 19, 2010

Gettin' Ripped in Ripple header

Don't Regress. . . Keep Recess
As I begin to write this article, I have just returned from an hour long run on a beautiful and sunny spring day. I ran around Butler campus and the lovely Art Museum grounds and got my legs and shoes a bit muddy on the slushy Canal Tow Path. . . but I didn't mind it a bit. As I got out of the shower and "cleaned up" I thought to myself that I wouldn't be the person I am today if it wasn't for all of the play and outdoor activity that I was blessed to experience as a child. Sure I was involved in many physical activities at home and outside of school, but most of the credit for my love of exercise is due to school-time recess and gym class.
This brings me to the focus of this article. It greatly saddens me that many schools have significantly cut down on recess and gym time, if not altogether. Due to low funding and overcrowded classrooms, many schools have pared down their "optional" offerings such as art, music and physical activity. I am assuming it is their way of making time for what they feel is the priority: math, science, language and social studies. Now, don't get me wrong, these subjects are extremely important and necessary for a well established education, but I feel that eliminating the other learning experiences is sending a dangerous message: That they are not a priority or necessary for a healthy, well-rounded life.
According to the Washington Post, 40% of schools do not offer recess (which is defined as at least 15 minutes of activity). They also reported a 12-hour decrease in their weekly free time, which includes a 25% decrease in play and a 50% decrease in unstructured outdoor activities. Obviously this is bad due to the fact that childhood obesity is off the charts. Our children are heavier than ever, and most have horrible eating patterns. We all know that changing habits are a hard thing to do, so these kids have the deck stacked against them at a young age. They will most likely end up being overweight or obese adults with various health problems and low self esteem. But this is not the only issue that arises from putting physical activity low on the priority list. Let me start my bullet points!
• Physical activity leads to a higher level of focus and cognitive functioning. Studies on age show the younger kids are, the less time the brain can pay attention. In college, 45 minutes to an hour is as long as the attention span can take. Younger kids are less than that. Therefore, when their brain lacks a break, the attention suffers and will lead to lower grades. . . which defeats the purpose of cutting the programs altogether! Many studies have shown a positive correlation between intelligence and education level with those who are physically active. They work together, not against one another.
• Due to the increase in unsafe neighborhoods, many kids are not free to roam around after school (like the good old days) without adult supervision. Recess gives kids a chance to interact and practice social skills with other children and to take a break from the classroom structure. In turn, I would suspect that they would be more likely to behave and respect authority if given a chance to "blow off steam" by playing for a short time.
• Recess and gym class expose children to the joy that sports and physical activity can bring. They may find a lifetime hobby that can lead him/her to years of healthy entertainment. When I was introduced to softball at recess for example, it prompted me to ask my parents if I could join a weekend softball league. Had I not experienced this at school first, who knows if I ever would have wanted to join on my own?
• Taking a short break from structure is a great lesson in stress reduction. This can teach children that it is healthy to enjoy oneself and still be productive. Not allowing children playtime is a sending a message that it is "bad" to be silly and playful at times. If that was the case. . . then I am in BIG trouble.
Obviously, I can go on and on with the reasons why I think schools need to keep gym and recess in our schools. It not only harms the children right now, but could lead to behaviors and thoughts that could negatively impact them for their entire life.



Laura Minor owner and operator of So.Be.Fit. Personal Training and Fitness studio located at 54th and the Monon. She is passionate about teaching others how to "FIT" exercise and physical activity into their daily lives, and have fun while doing so! Visit her website at www.sobefitindy.com or e-mail laura@BroadRippleGazette.com




laura@broadripplegazette.com
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