Name
Students in Motion: Increasing Wellness Through Movement-Focused Anatomy Videos
Date & Time
Monday, June 16, 2025, 2:27 PM - 2:42 PM
Authors

Maureen Schaefer, Michigan State University
Libby Bradley, Michigan State University
Nebiyat Girma, Michigan State University
Laura Gjidoda, Michigan State University
Nicole Geske, Michigan State University

Presentation Topic(s)
Instructional Methods
Description

Purpose
Prolonged sitting is linked to poor physical and mental health, yet medical students often spend excessive hours in sedentary positions while studying. This study examines how integrating physical activity into the educational process can encourage students to move more and improve their overall well-being.

Methods
A series of innovative teaching videos incorporating physical activity (e.g., dance, calisthenics, exercise, and gestures) were created and uploaded to the Knockout Anatomy YouTube channel. These videos were assigned as supplemental material for first-year medical students in a musculoskeletal course. After completing the course, one-on-one interviews were conducted with students to explore the potential benefits of the videos on learning and well-being. Interview questions focused on how the videos influenced memory retention and how students felt physically and mentally during and after viewing. Transcriptions were analyzed using thematic coding to identify key insights.

Results
A total of 28 students participated in the interviews. Students reported that the videos’ physical activity components were enjoyable, provided much-needed study breaks, and reduced stress associated with challenging subject matter, ultimately enhancing mental well-being. The movement also improved physical comfort, boosted alertness, and offered an efficient way to incorporate exercise into their study routines.

Conclusion
This study highlights the potential benefits of incorporating movement into study practices, offering a fresh perspective on medical education. The findings aim to inspire healthier academic habits by prioritizing student wellness and fostering a positive learning environment. Ultimately, this research seeks to redefine how students approach their studies to support both learning and overall well-being.