QUICK

The Daily Mile takes just 15 minutes to complete. Transitions between class and route should be quick and easy.

 FUN

The Daily Mile is physical activity in a social setting and must be fun for the children. They can chat to their friends as they run along enjoying the experience together.

100%

It’s always fully inclusive … with every child participating every day. Children should all be out together in the fresh air. Those with mobility difficulties should be supported to take part.

WEATHER

Treat the weather as a benefit, not a barrier. Children enjoy being outside in the different types of weather, connecting with nature, and being aware of the seasons. The Daily Mile can work for schools in most climates. Teachers in Texas encourage their students to walk The Daily Mile (rather than run), if temperatures are high. Likewise, teachers in Chicago ensure students wear their coats if temperatures are very low. Please always follow your Districts policy on extreme weather and always choose safety first.

 ROUTE

Your Daily Mile route just needs to be safe, social, and fun. Most schools use a field close to their existing playground. The route should be small enough that students pass each other 6-8 times during the 15 minutes.  Incorporating child-pleasing loops, twists and turns work well. Check out Coach Durand from Ambassadors Preparatory Academy in Galveston, TX walk you though how to set up a great Daily Mile route!

RISK

Risk assess the route in order to ensure The Daily Mile is a safe activity. Please see a sample risk assessment, here.

WHEN TO GO

The Daily Mile should happen during the school day, at least three times a week. Teachers know when The Daily Mile works best and many do it when kids need to burn off excess energy or are having trouble focusing.  The class teacher should decide when to go out as they know their class and can respond flexibly to their needs.

 CLOTHES

The children run in their everyday clothes. Use jackets or sweaters when it is cold or damp outside. No changing into gym clothing is required.

 OWN PACE

Children do The Daily Mile at their own pace. Some may run, while others jog, or walk. However, the goal is for all children to eventually be able to run or jog for the full 15 minutes. Most teachers find that most students can run the entire duration after about a month of doing The Daily Mile three to five times a week.

 SIMPLE

Keep it simple. Resist the temptation to overcomplicate it. It should always be social and fun. From time to time, you may wish to connect it to the curriculum. Check out these free resources for fun printables you may incorporate into your school culture if you’d like too!

Join the movement!