How we Designed Zero-cost Playground to develop Athletic Abilities of Students
Academic achievements of students of our school were gradually increasing. Students were focused on studies, parents were satisfied and teachers were energetic. The recent final exam results were published. So, the atmosphere of the school was very enthusiastic. It was new session of 2076 BS. We had set a target for SEE exams. We wanted to top the list of the rural municipality. Classes started along with coaching. Hostel was established for students appearing SEE. Coaching classes were being run for other classes in the morning and evening. Super 20, a program to select 20 students from classes 6 & 7 to develop their academic and non academic abilities was also initiated. Lot of things were done to develop academic results. Mental pressure on everyone was increasing.
Being an observer myself, I could feel the pressure on me and everyone. I thought physical exercise would be a very good way out. We had not any gaming equipment nor we had playground big enough. We had open space in the school compound but there were large trees and bushes. One day I saw a broken branch among the trees, I with the help of other teacher tied the branch to the trees at a low height and other branch at higher height for push up. Our principal sir seemed quiet interested in the idea. He was himself more inclined towards physical activities. We had no funds for it. A whole plan was set up around developing athletic activities of the students of all levels. Principal sir was himself leading the activities both coordinating and training himself.
Aerobics Inside School
Aerobics inside School was zero resources requiring activity. It could be done in mass even with less open space. None of the teachers had formal training on aerobics, so we were reluctant to lead. However, YouTube helped us with some videos and a previous fellow also conducted some sessions. This was basically done by the class teacher during 5 to 10 minutes of the first class of the day. The limitation with this exercise was that it could only be done during the morning classes and winter season. If the classes were on daytime, the high temperature would be risk for students.
The exercise consisted of simple stretching of body. During earlier sessions, most of the students felt shy to follow the instructor but later they became used to it. This simple stretching could provide enough energy for students during the school time. They seemed more happier and energetic. We could not make this sustainable as temperature gradually increased and due to heat it could not be carried out outside the classroom. Even for a very short period of time, the exercise was helpful for the students as well as teachers.
Obstacle Circuit
Obstacle Circuit was my favorite. We utilized locally available materials to build the circuit. Branches were tied to tress around the school compound. Some at higher heights while some at lower. The main idea was that students could either crawl, jump, hang or avoid the obstacle. Some big tractor tires were also laid along the way. The runner had to jump through the tires. The tress made the way zig-zag, due to which running became fun. Students from all levels could complete this track. Some teachers also tried to complete the track.
Students from lower classes enjoyed it more than that of higher classes. They would not stop laughing and smiling. It seemed that they were free and wild after a very long time. They were more eager than the teachers to try the tracks and would constantly urge the teachers to let them run. There was danger of injuries if the teacher were not around, as students could fight or fall. However, due to supervision of teachers no such accident happened. We used to give directions early before the start of the run to play safely.
Tires Formation
Used Tires were installed inside the school ground and some were just left over. Students would jump over the installed tires on sand. There was sand all over, so cases of injuries was very less. They would use other tires for different formations according to their wish. Students would even compete for who could jump higher or could lift of the tires. This was popular among students from higher levels. Students from lower classes would crawl inside the installed tires. Basically, it was used for jumping and lifting. Some students were seen practicing balance on the tires. These activities were unmonitored as students could use it freely according to their will.
Running Around
Running was the best form for exercise that we could figure out. But there was not enough space for it. So, we used to run around in a line. Our principal sir would lead the run and other teachers would join. Sometimes, it looked like a procession. We also used to run on the streets in a line. As there were very less traffic, it was safe to have a short run on the road. While running on the road, the community also built positive attitude towards the school. We had already proved our academic achievements and some nonacademic achievements. Now, as we were also focusing on the physical exercise, most of the community members encouraged us. It also helped to break gender barriers that girls could also run. Most of the parents were amazed seeing their kids run. They had never seen their kids running before and hadn’t even thought of such kind.
All of the above mentioned activities ran smoothly for a certain period of time. Interest was high during the initial days. But we could not make it sustainable. After 2 months, it was discontinued. We were engaged in other tasks as well and holidays started. After the school was resumed, due to high temperature, school assembly was also discontinued and along with that other activities as well.
