Long periods of sedentary time can be interrupted with very small actions. Students on the move materials highlight that even short moments of movement are beneficial and that activity breaks can support alertness and concentration.
The new activity icons provide an easy and visible way to encourage movement in the everyday life of our Universities. They can be used in teaching and studying as well as during the workday.
Where could you use the activity icons?
- Near your screen or workstation
As a reminder to get up from your computer and change your working position every now and then.
- In or near teaching and meeting spaces
An activity icon can encourage a little movement before a class or meeting, during a break or between activities.
- In coffee rooms and shared spaces
Why not add a little movement, stretching or a short walk to your coffee break?
- Near printers and other shared facilities
You are already up from your desk, so why not take a few extra steps?
- In independent study spaces
An activity icon can offer students a friendly reminder to take a break during a long study session.
- As a tool for activating teaching
Teachers can use the activity icons as conversation starters, signals for a break or inspiration for introducing a brief moment of movement during teaching.
- For meetings, seminars and other presentations
Use an activity icon to make movement a natural part of the event. Encourage participants to stand up from time to time, change position or take a short movement break together. The activity icons are also an easy and fun way to communicate right from the start that it is OK to move!
The goal is not to turn the study or workday into a workout. Small moments of movement and interruptions to sedentary time can already contribute to a more active day. Breaking up sitting during lessons is also identified as one practical approach to promoting movement in higher education within the Students on the move programme.
Explore the activity icons and other guidelines and materials for adding movement:
Put the materials to use and let even small moments of movement become part of the day!