The Science behind The Daily Mile

Backed by Research

The benefits of physical activity are well known, with the World Health Organisation recommending 60 active minutes each day for every child.

Research shows that the simple act of doing The Daily Mile outdoors with friends transforms children's lives, promoting whole-child wellbeing regardless of age, ability or personal circumstance.

Over the years our community has worked with researchers across the globe to build a growing evidence base. Our simple approach benefits children's bodies, minds, and learning while also helping schools create a healthier, more active environment.

There is undisputed evidence around the benefits of physical activity. Equally there is undisputed evidence around the poor impact on our health of inactivity. All of us who have the ability to do so should take the action to improve our individual and national level of activity. The Daily Mile is a simple solution that provides opportunities for all, easy to deliver, proven to deliver and we want to support you to put this in place.”
Dr Gregor Smith, Chief Medical Officer Scotland

The Research

Science has long proven the importance of being physically active in helping our bodies and minds stay healthy. The information below summarises the positive impact physical activity has on children’s health, wellbeing and learning – and how The Daily Mile can help children access these benefits every day. View the research for yourself and explore how it could benefit your community.

Healthy Bodies

Research undertaken on The Daily Mile has evidenced the positive impact regular movement has on our physical health, including body composition, cardiovascular health, muscle strength, flexibility, coordination, and overall fitness.

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Healthy Minds

The relationship between regular physical activity and positive mental health is a well proven one, and research on the Daily Mile supports this, demonstrating positive effects on mood, stress, self esteem, emotions, social interactions, and mental resilience.

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Active Learners

Our community of teachers and school leaders informs us that one of their greatest motivations for doing the Daily Mile is the improved behaviour, concentration, and heightened engagement by their pupils they experience in the classroom afterwards, and some of the research backs this up.

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Other Research

Here you will find research papers that fall outside of the core areas of healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds, and Active Learners, including topics close to our heart such as teacher well-being, diversity and inclusion.

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Why Schools Love The Daily Mile

Fun

Run, wheel, or walk outdoors with your friends, at your own pace. It’s social, non-competitive and every child succeeds.

Simple + Free

Just 15 minutes, at least three times a week- it fits seamlessly into the school day! No extra prep, no equipment, no set up or tidy up and no need to change into kit.

Inclusive

Every child takes part – regardless of age, ability, or circumstances. The Daily Mile creates a shared experience where everyone feels that they belong.

Proven Benefits

Improves children’s fitness, focus and overall well-being. Regular participation boosts concentration in class, strengthens peer and teacher-child relationships, helping every child to thrive.

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Research Summary

You can download our Research Summary here to understand the work we do and why it's important.

Research Summary

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Looking to research The Daily Mile?

In addition to the research summarised above there are many universities across the globe currently studying The Daily Mile, whose work is yet to be published.

In order to encourage a collaborative approach to research and ensure that we can continue to learn more about the impact of The Daily Mile on children’s health and wellbeing the Foundation coordinates a Research Advisory Group.

If you’re considering studying The Daily Mile, please ensure that your institution is aware of our Core Principles for Research and get in touch with us at team@thedailymile.co.uk.