ULSTER GAA: The daily mile

THE Daily Mile is a free and inclusive initiative that encourages schools to get children moving for just 15 minutes a day, helping to build healthy habits that last a lifetime. No special equipment, kit, or set-up is needed – just a safe space for pupils to walk, jog or run together each day.

Since its introduction, The Daily Mile has been adopted in over 14,000 schools worldwide – and Northern Ireland is leading the way with the highest percentage of participating schools across the UK.

In a recent data linkage study involving 358 NI primary schools, 54.7 per cent reported actively taking part in The Daily Mile, with 67 per cent of those involving all year groups (Breslin et. al., 2023a).

The beauty of The Daily Mile lies in its simplicity and impact. Research shows it contributes to improved physical fitness, mental wellbeing, and even focus in the classroom – all from a short daily burst of movement (Breslin et. al., 2023b). This aligns closely with the GAA’s mission to promote lifelong participation in sport and a healthy lifestyle from an early age.

Participation is strong across a wide range of school settings – urban and rural, large and small – showing that The Daily Mile can work anywhere, whether you’ve a large pitch, a small yard or something in between.

While some challenges have been identified – including limited time during the school day, adverse weather, and space constraints – many schools are finding innovative ways to overcome them. From adapting routes to using covered areas or integrating The Daily Mile into class timetables, schools are making it their own and seeing the benefits.

To celebrate and recognise schools that have embedded The Daily Mile into their weekly routine, the Children’s Fit For Life Award is available. This national award highlights schools that run The Daily Mile at least three times per week, championing a commitment to pupil health and wellbeing.

The Daily Mile is about more than just movement – it’s about inclusion, resilience and giving every child the opportunity to move, connect and feel good.

Dr Brenda McKay Redmond and Dr Barbara McConnell, co-chairs of the NI Daily Mile Network report that “with support from organisations like Ulster GAA, Athletics NI and the wider health trusts, we look forward to bringing more schools on board and celebrating the positive impact of this simple but powerful initiative across Northern Ireland.”

Follow on the social media facebook page Daily Mile Network NI.

To find out more about the Daily Mile, email Dean.Adams@athleticsni.org or Thedailymile@Stran.ac.uk. To register your school, visit: www.thedailymile.co.uk.