Feature Story

Let the Games Begin!

Basing a health class on the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, opening on February 12, in Vancouver Canada, provides teachers with the opportunity to motivate students to start a fitness program or to learn the value of getting at least 60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Students who appreciate sporting games will be excited that a current event has been incorporated into their health class. Even those students who prefer not to play a team sport may appreciate the beauty and grace of figure skating, or the athleticism and skill of snowboarding or freestyle skiing. Those students who enjoy sports such as hockey can learn about teamwork and sportsmanship.
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NBC Learn

The NBC News Archives on Demand Health and Wellness video collection provides 3-5 minute video clips that focus on positive lifestyle choices and the latest research in health science. Explore body systems, health and hygiene, exercise and fitness, food and nutrition, and advances in medicine, along with mental health resources addressing self-image, relationships, stress management, conflict resolution, and mental health disorders.
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Fitness Zone

Fitness Zone activities provide a good way to integrate fitness into your classroom. You can use them to give students a quick break between subjects, so students settle down to focus on new material more easily.

STOMP - Rhythm Activity

Divide students into pairs or do this as a whole class activity.

• Teacher/leader beats out a rhythmical pattern (may use hands on desk/floor, clap, or stomp). Start with simple rhythm patterns (such as clap, clap, stomp, stomp) and encourage students to use large body movements to move to the rhythm.
• Leader will place hands up in the air when the pattern is complete so students will know it is their turn.
• Have students take turns initiating other rhythmical patterns to follow.

You can find more energy boosters like these in FitnessZone.

Professional Development

Bringing the Olympic Spirit to the Classroom

The Olympic Games provide a great opportunity to teach students valuable health skills, such as Goal Setting. The Olympic and Paralympic Games can help you to motivate students to commit to maintaining a personal fitness plan. Although the catalyst for studying the Olympics in your health class is the beginning of the 2010 Games, remind students that getting regular physical activity is important all the time, and that they do not need to join a team sport to become fit. Walking, swimming, and riding a bicycle are all great ways to get fit and stay healthy. Here are a few activities and ideas you can use to incorporate the spirit of the Olympic Games into your curriculum:
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Teacher Tips—What Works!

Teacher tips are tried and true teaching strategies developed by health education teachers around the country. Take a look at some classroom activities that really work.
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