We believe that everyone should start the the day by being active and children are no different.

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Morning exercise can be more beneficial – and there is significant evidence that by being active first thing can deliver real benefits in terms of health, wellbeing, behaviour and even academic achievement.

Here are the top 6 benefits of switching school PE from the afternoon to the morning.

• Improved productivity
Exercise gets the blood flowing and increases the amount of oxygen that gets to the brain. It also releases endorphins in the body – providing children with an increase in focus for between 4 to 10 hours.

• Increased cognitive function
Exercise can provide a real, measurable mental boost – improving a child’s ability to perform, learn and think for the rest of the day.

Exercise is proven to boost the production of cells in the hippocampus, which are responsible for memory and learning. In addition, cardiovascular exercise also promotes the brain’s ability to create new brain cells (neurogenesis), as well as increasing levels of the protein BDNF, which supports decision making, higher thinking and learning.

• Boosted metabolism
Start the day with exercise, and children will benefit from increased metabolism for the following 12 hours or more. At the same time, exercise briefly regulates the appetite stimulating hormone, ghrelin – so children are less likely to snack on unhealthy foods, and may make better choices at lunch.

• Better mood
Moderate, fun-focused PE lessons provide a real boost to hormones, and mental wellbeing. The endorphins and dopamine released cut stress levels and anxiety, making children feel calmer and happier for up to 10 hours.

In addition, physical activity is a great way of boosting young children’s self-esteem. The process of overcoming challenging situations and achieving goals early in the day can help children to develop a more positive outlook for the rest of the day.

• More energy
Exercising early fights fatigue, and provides a positive energy boost that lasts the whole day in children of all ages.

For children that struggle to focus or zone out during the afternoon, early exercise can help to increase clarity and attention span for academic lessons.

• Better behaviour
Aerobic doesn’t just boost positive energy – it also helps to tackle restless energy in children.

For disruptive children, those with autism spectrum disorders, and children with ADHD, several studies have proven that just 30 minutes of exercise during the day can help to reduce problem behaviours including:

Repetitive behaviour
Off task behaviour
Mouthing
Self-injury
Disruptiveness
Aggression

The positive benefits can last several hours.

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Our Early Riser sessions will take place Monday - Friday at The Elms Primary School from 07:30 - 08:45 and is available to children in years 1 - 6. Spaces will be limited to 20 children.

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If you'd like to sign up for our Early Riser sessions, please click here.