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

Ilaria M. Piccinini (), Jesper Hallas, Casey L. Peiris, Henrik Lauridsen, Tina Dalager and Karen Søgaard ()
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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
Casey L. Peiris: School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, Physiotherapy, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, 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
Karen Søgaard: Center for Muscle and Joint Health, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark

IJERPH, 2025, vol. 22, issue 5, 1-23

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.

Keywords: classroom movement breaks; mind breaks; university students; attention; well-being (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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