Heather Gillin
September 8, 2020
September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. Dr. Hildi Nicksic, health education expert, said childhood obesity is an ongoing problem that has not been caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, but exacerbated by circumstances surrounding it.
Nicksic, a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Health and Kinesiology, said maintaining physical activity for children during this time is important in keeping childhood obesity rates at bay.
“On a population-wide level, we are seeing diminished physical activity levels, altered dietary habits including consumption of excess calories, and heightened stress and anxiety, all of which increase the risk of obesity,” Nicksic said. “Children may be at additional risk due to their lack of autonomy.”
Last spring, Nicksic shared how physical activity could be incorporated into distance education. Now, she hopes to share how schools that are welcoming students back to campus can safely integrate physical activity in the classroom and in the gym.
Nicksic said physical activity does not require personal contact, therefore there are numerous options for students to engage in safe, “space bubble” movement.
“Given that teachers are needing to consider alternative seating arrangements to meet the physical distancing requirements, there may actually be more room for activity in the classroom – across all levels of education,” Nicksic said.
Chair dips, jumping jacks, squats, stretching poses and arm circles are just a few of the many movements that students can complete in a confined space.
Some districts have had to cancel physical education classes due to disease transmission concerns and budgetary cuts. For programs allowed to continue, Nicksic said this is an ideal time to focus on skill-building and teaching technique, as many movements can be practiced individually and independently.
“For example, for a tennis unit, breaking down the mechanics of different swings and having students practice their form is a physically distanced activity, as are stationary dribbling drills in a basketball unit,” Nicksic said.
For the full article, check out The College of Education and Human Development’s website.