In-the-area supervision is recommended following initial skill instruction and after all safety concerns have been emphasized.
Instructional Considerations
Students should be informed of the route boundaries for the activity.
Teacher should encourage the use of the buddy system. Establishing a rule that students are responsible for the student behind them will keep the group together.
Do not walk in the street if traffic is present.
Instruct students that if bothered by a dog, stop and tell them “No!” in a stern voice. Do not run.
Instruct students to slow their pace if they begin feeling dizzy.
Equipment/Facilities
Prior to initial use of a route, teacher should do a safety check “walk through” to identify potential hazards.
When choosing a route consider the following:
Walk or run on the left of a roadway facing traffic.
Precautions should be taken to avoid busy intersections as part of the route.
Avoid sidewalks with broken concrete or high curbs.
Avoid construction sites and congested streets.
Students should not use mobile phones or audio devices with earphones.
Reflective clothing or armbands can be worn to improve visibility in low-light conditions.
Appropriate outdoor running and walking surfaces include sidewalks, grass, trails and pavement.
Need more information?
Provincial Fitness Unit of Alberta
www.provincialfitnessunit.ca
780-492-4435
1-866-348-8648