Get physical for best practice training #trainingtip

Whilst the human being is supposed to be a smart, intelligent animal, the reality that we cannot escape from is that we are also physical beings.

Sitting still or remaining stationary for long periods of time might be aspirational for some, but from a learning point of view, we learn best when we move.

There is conflicting research about the exact nature of what physical activity is best for learning, however there are some general principles that Neuroscientists agree on:

• People need to move at least once every 30 minutes
• Physical activities, moving things in the real world, once every 10 minutes helps promote engagement

The Biology

As well as a developmental need, we breath better, and our circulation system work more efficiently when we are moving, than when we are staric. The lymbic system of course requires physical movement to work anywhere near effectively.

If moving enables more efficient blood circulation, so is oxygen distribution more effective, and we know the brain operates on oxygen.

Even as you sit reading this post, you will suddenly become aware of those certain sensations in your back, neck, legs. and as you are aware of that you start to move. As trainers we need to do that for people.

It’s all about permission

In a classroom environment, many people will stay sitting until given permission to move, so we need to both set expectations that it is ok to move if they feel the need, and to give activities or short breaks to “force” people oy of their seats.

Summary for effective learning…

Always have a reason to get people moving at least every 30 minutes Get learners to move things in real space.. not just on screen

Get people physically engaged with the learning and they will more likely be mentally and intellectually engaged too!