Using Integration and Autonomy to Teach an Elementary Running Unit

Abstract

Cardiovascular fitness is an important aspect of overall fitness, health, and wellness, and running can be an excellent lifetime physical activity. One of the most simple and effective means of exercise, running raises heart rate in a short amount of time and can be done with little to no cost for equipment. There are many benefits to running, including reducing the risk of coronary heart disease and obesity, as well as promoting self-esteem and competence. Although running is not viewed as a fun activity by many students, perhaps some effort by physical education teachers will change student attitudes on running, thus curbing the obesity epidemic that is crippling our society. This article describes how to teach a running unit for fourth through sixth graders using autonomy-supportive delivery while integrating technology, as well as other disciplines (e.g., mathematics, science, reading, etc.). This article addresses the procedures that can make a program successful and offers recommendations for practitioners interested in teaching a running unit.