Designing Study Break Routines

In groups of four, students create a 2-minute active break to do at a study desk, with mobility, a stretch, and breathing, and then teach it to another group. It helps students carry physical activity into daily life.

How to play

1. Students form groups of four with four chairs in a circle; the teacher explains the break must work seated or standing beside a desk (1 min).
2. Each group picks and writes on its worksheet four exercises: one for neck and shoulders, one for the back, one for the legs, and one for breathing, with times (3 min).
3. Groups rehearse their full break once, adjusting timing until it lasts about two minutes (2 min).
4. Each group pairs up with another: first one leads its break while the other follows, then they switch (3 min).
5. Wrap-up: each group writes down one tip from the partner group to improve its break and turns in the worksheet (1 min).

Rules

• All exercises must fit in a small space and need no special equipment.
• Use chairs without tipping or standing on them.
• Every group member leads at least one exercise.
• Neck movements are slow, with no full circles.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the group makes sure every exercise has a seated version.
• Shyness: the student can lead by demonstrating without explaining out loud.
• Attention difficulties: give the student the timekeeper role using the classroom clock.

Learning goals

• Design a short physical activity routine to use while studying.
• Cooperate in a group by sharing tasks and roles.
• Recognize the value of breaking up sitting time during study.

Equipment for a class of 25

• chairs: 25
• worksheets: 7
• pens: 7

Teacher tip

Collect the best breaks and share them with homeroom or other teachers to use in class. Remind students these should be gentle, not a workout.

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