Fuel the Day.
Prioritize Physical Activity at Your School. SHAPE America affirms that physical activity should be a shared priority across the entire school community. A comprehensive approach embeds movement before, during and after the school day, creating a culture that supports the whole child.
WHY IT MATTERS Prioritizing physical activity in school helps build a foundation of health, joy and lifelong learning. It can also: Improve student focus, behavior and academic success; Strengthen mental, physical and social well-being; Expand equitable access to activity and reinforce the importance of quality physical education. When movement is embedded into the school day, students thrive.
GET MOVING ... ALL DAY LONG Time/Setting
What Movement Can Look Like
Before School
Walk and roll programs, open gym, intramural clubs
During School
Brain boosts, classroom energizers, active transitions
Recess
Inclusive free play, student-led games, activity equipment
Physical Education Class
Standards-based instruction, skill development, inclusive activities
After School
Activity clubs, sports, family fitness nights
Staff & Community Programs
Wellness challenges, walking groups, school events
LEAD THE WAY Physical educators can play a key role in building a culture of wellness in school. Here’s how: Encourage and support classroom movement breaks; Collaborate to protect recess and PE time; Connect families and community partners to wellness efforts; Serve on school wellness teams and advocate for daily activity; Reinforce joyful, inclusive movement in every setting.
Physical activity is essential. Not extra. Not expendable. View the full SHAPE America position statement. Copyright © 2026 by SHAPE America | shapeamerica.org | All rights reserved. PO Box 225, Annapolis Junction, MD 20701 | 800.213.9527