Elementary schools in Tennessee are celebrating Physical Fitness Month in a big way after hitting the milestone of 100 million minutes of physical activity performed in the classroom thanks to a tool called GoNoodle.

GoNoodle is available in all of the state’s elementary schools thanks to "a 3-year, $3 million sponsorship from BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation,” said BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation in a statement.

GoNoodle works by providing teachers with a suite of videos that include 3-5 minute long activities for students to perform in between lessons.

"Together with BlueCross, GoNoodle is helping Tennessee students accumulate vital movement minutes with entertaining experiences that feature high-energy dance music, fitness routines, virtual field trips and physical challenges. Through increased movement in the classroom, these elementary students are not only improving their health but also boosting their cognitive processing, focus and academic performance,” the statement said.

"Both energizing and calming videos are available to help teachers channel kids’ energy for good while incorporating math, spelling and vocabulary."

GoNoodle requires only a computer, Internet access, and some kind of projector or interactive whiteboard to use. Most classrooms already have these tools readily available.

Different states go about ensuring physical activity in the classroom in different ways. Some have supported standing desks, while others have done things like made recess mandatory in all schools.

While every state’s approach is different and some better than others, it’s no doubt that physical activity in schools is a national priority.

Read the full story.

Nicole Gorman, Education World Senior Contributor

5/10/2016