Looking for a safe outlet? Try driveway karate
Physical education teacher inspires neighbourhood to keep moving during coronavirus lockdowns
As kids begin online learning in subjects like math and English, there is one subject that shouldn't be forgotten about.
Halifax's Springvale Elementary school physical education teacher, John McGowan, is reminding students not to “skip out on gym class” as the coronavirus has many in isolation at home.
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"It's very important,” he said. “They should be trying to get 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity a day. And there are so many things coming out right now online that you can access, a lot being put out by the school board and by physical education teachers."
Springvale Elementary school Phys Ed. teacher John McGowan isn't about to let staying at home keep him from being active.
Residents living in McGowan's neighbourhood have been watching everyday as he stays in shape through driveway karate.
With the help of his wife, he has launched a webpage his students can access to help keep them active. McGowan says he's been pleased to see neighbourhood kids out in their driveways, too.
"I went for a walk in the neighbourhood because I live in the same catchment and I wanted to see how the kids are keeping active and I was pleasantly surprised,” said McGowan. “There were so many kids out in their driveways doing a lot of things from basketball to hockey."
His karate club, ISKF of Halifax, was supposed to host nationals this year over the May long weekend, but it had to be pushed ahead by two years.
As for what his neighbours think of his driveway routine.
"Some of them appreciate it, some of them look kind of weird"
His message to his students: "Keep active, find the webpage, and be creative and send me some pictures."
Watch the video above for the full story.
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