As educators, we know that the structure of the school day can have a profound impact on students’ learning and overall well-being. For Physical Education (PE) teachers, the timing of your lessons is just as important as the activities you plan. While afternoon PE classes may feel like the natural fit, there’s growing evidence that scheduling PE sessions in the morning can be a game-changer for both students and teachers.
Here’s why you might want to consider moving your PE lessons to the morning:
1. Boosts Energy Levels and Focus
One of the most significant benefits of morning PE is the way it can energise students for the rest of the day. Physical activity, especially early in the morning, increases blood flow and releases endorphins, giving students a natural “energy boost.” After a session, they’re more alert and ready to engage in the academic work ahead. As studies suggest, physical activity before mental tasks can improve focus and cognitive function—so your students might not just feel better; they may also perform better, too.
2. Creates a Positive Start to the Day
We all know that the first few hours of a school day set the tone for how students will behave and learn. Starting with PE allows students to burn off some of their morning energy, reducing restlessness and giving them a productive outlet. Instead of entering class feeling sluggish or distracted, students are more likely to be in a positive, active mindset. This can improve classroom behavior and lead to a smoother transition into the academic parts of the day.
3. Improves Mood
Physical activity has well-documented benefits for improved mood So, starting the day with movement can set a positive and balanced tone for your students’ emotional well-being. For children who may struggle with anxiety, stress, or low mood, a morning PE session can serve as a mental reset. Exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, which can be especially helpful during challenging times, like the beginning of a school day or when students are facing academic pressures.
4. Promotes Consistent Physical Activity Habits
Starting the day with exercise can help students establish a routine of physical activity, which is key to building healthy habits. When PE is done early, students are more likely to embrace movement as part of their daily routine, not just as something “extra” that happens later in the day. Over time, this consistency helps foster long-term habits of physical activity, which can improve students’ health and well-being beyond their time at school.
5. Gives Teachers a Creative Head Start
Let’s face it: morning sessions might be easier to plan with more creativity in mind. You’ve had a good night’s sleep, and the day is fresh, meaning your own energy and enthusiasm are at their peak. Your students will feed off that energy, and it could spark new ideas for activities or ways to engage them. Also, by getting PE out of the way early, you free up the rest of your day to focus on other teaching responsibilities without the looming pressure of an afternoon class.
6. Supports Better Sleep Habits
For students who tend to be night owls, starting the day with PE can actually help shift their internal clocks. Regular exercise in the morning can improve sleep patterns by helping to regulate the circadian rhythm. By incorporating physical activity into their morning routine, students may experience better sleep quality and feel more refreshed in the morning.
7. Improves Overall Academic Performance
There’s a growing body of research linking physical activity to improved academic performance. When PE sessions are scheduled in the morning, the mental clarity and alertness students gain from the exercise can carry over into their academic lessons. From better test scores to more efficient learning, the cognitive benefits of early exercise are clear. Engaging in physical activity first thing can increase both short-term and long-term academic success.
8. Helps Create Stronger Relationships
When students are more active and alert, they’re more likely to interact positively with their peers and teachers. Morning PE can be an excellent opportunity for students to form friendships through team-building activities and group exercises. These early interactions can foster a stronger classroom community, with students working together towards common goals.
9. Smoother Transitions Throughout the Day
Having a morning PE class allows for a natural transition from physical exertion to cognitive learning. The post-PE “cool-down” period, whether it’s a slower-paced activity or a moment of reflection, helps students mentally adjust to the quieter, more focused nature of academic lessons. This smooth transition can prevent the “post-lunch slump” and set the tone for a productive rest of the day.
In Conclusion
While it might take a bit of adjustment, scheduling PE in the morning can have incredible benefits for both students and teachers. From improving energy and focus to fostering healthier, more balanced lifestyles, morning PE provides a strong foundation for a successful school day. By getting students moving first thing in the morning, you’re not just helping them develop physically; you’re setting them up for success in the classroom, too.
So, next time you’re planning your schedule, consider the power of the morning PE session. It might just be the change you—and your students—need for a more energised and productive school day!
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