By Josh and Daniel, Catholic Partnership Schools Healthy Courier reporters | The majority of St. Joseph Pro-Cathedral eighth graders said they choose to be active during recess. 

In a recent survey of 30 students, 22 reported their favorite thing to do at recess is a sport or an activity that gets them moving. Popular sports that students like to play are soccer and volleyball. They also enjoy walking, running, and playing football. 

Eight students reported that they prefer not to move around much during recess. They said their favorite activities are eating, sleeping, doing homework, and painting. 

St. Joseph Pro reporters observed recess and learned that most of the students are getting a lot of exercise by doing their favorite sport. 

The American Heart Association recommends that kids get 60 minutes of moderate or vigorous activity every day. What does that mean? If you are sweating but can talk while you’re exercising, you’re probably doing a moderate activity. If you’re breathing hard, sweating, and can’t talk, you’re exercising vigorously. 

The Healthy Courier survey shows that most students are getting moderate activity during recess.

Illustration by Antonio, fourth grade, Cole Manor, 2022–23.