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PauseNørd Pilot Study: Exploring the Implementation of Mini Movement Breaks in University Lectures

Author

Listed:
  • Ilaria M. Piccinini

    (Center for Muscle and Joint Health, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark)

  • Jesper Hallas

    (Clinical Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Environmental Medicine, Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
    Pharmacology, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark)

  • Casey L. Peiris

    (School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, Physiotherapy, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia
    Allied Health, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia)

  • Henrik Lauridsen

    (Center for Muscle and Joint Health, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark)

  • Tina Dalager

    (Center for Muscle and Joint Health, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
    Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark)

  • Karen Søgaard

    (Center for Muscle and Joint Health, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark)

Abstract

We pilot-tested movement breaks lasting < 1 min at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) with an initiative called PauseNørd . Our mixed-methods feasibility study explored the acceptability, practicality, expansion, and limited efficacy of the PauseNørd breaks (PN breaks) via observation, questionnaires, and short interviews. Three groups of students tested lectures with and without the PN breaks. The PN breaks were well accepted by students and lecturers, and they were practically easy to implement. Suggestions to improve practicality related to timing and frequency. Potential barriers to expansion were identified in relation to student familiarity with exercise and lecturer comfort in leading the breaks. Preliminary data on effectiveness indicated that the PN breaks could support alertness, concentration, enjoyment, motivation, positive mood, and the social interactions within the class. The learning from the pilot study will be used to inform future PN research.

Suggested Citation

  • Ilaria M. Piccinini & Jesper Hallas & Casey L. Peiris & Henrik Lauridsen & Tina Dalager & Karen Søgaard, 2025. "PauseNørd Pilot Study: Exploring the Implementation of Mini Movement Breaks in University Lectures," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(5), pages 1-23, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:5:p:739-:d:1650900
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Julia Lynch & Gráinne O’Donoghue & Casey L. Peiris, 2022. "Classroom Movement Breaks and Physically Active Learning Are Feasible, Reduce Sedentary Behaviour and Fatigue, and May Increase Focus in University Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(13), pages 1-15, June.
    2. Casey L. Peiris & Gráinne O’Donoghue & Lewis Rippon & Dominic Meyers & Andrew Hahne & Marcos De Noronha & Julia Lynch & Lisa C. Hanson, 2021. "Classroom Movement Breaks Reduce Sedentary Behavior and Increase Concentration, Alertness and Enjoyment during University Classes: A Mixed-Methods Feasibility Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(11), pages 1-14, May.
    3. Katie R. Hosteng & Alison Phillips Reichter & Jacob E. Simmering & Lucas J. Carr, 2019. "Uninterrupted Classroom Sitting is Associated with Increased Discomfort and Sleepiness Among College Students," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(14), pages 1-10, July.
    4. Martin Niedermeier & Elisabeth M. Weiss & Lisa Steidl-Müller & Martin Burtscher & Martin Kopp, 2020. "Acute Effects of a Short Bout of Physical Activity on Cognitive Function in Sport Students," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(10), pages 1-13, May.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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