Germany's Fittest Primary School Crowned: DEICHMANN Initiative Celebrates Active Kids
DEICHMANN celebrates Germany's fittest primary school for 2026, highlighting the importance of physical activity in children's education.
28.07.2026 – 14:23
DEICHMANN SE
Germany's Fittest Primary School Crowned: DEICHMANN Initiative Celebrates Active Kids
Essen (ots)
The Grundschule Hagelstadt from Bavaria has been named Germany's fittest primary school for 2026, triumphing over more than 150 schools as part of the nationwide DEICHMANN initiative "DEICHMANN bewegt." Approximately 30,000 children participated in the program, collectively logging over 480,000 movement units. The initiative aims to seamlessly integrate more physical activity into everyday school life.
This marks the third year that DEICHMANN has invited schools across Germany to promote physical activity among children. The goal is to re-establish movement as a fundamental part of the school routine, particularly in an era dominated by smartphones and video games, while also enhancing the health of primary school students. Alarmingly, the Robert Koch Institute's 2022 HBSC study revealed that only 10.8% of girls and 20.9% of boys aged 11 to 15 meet the World Health Organization's daily recommendation of at least 60 minutes of physical activity.
Over 150 schools in Germany have now taken a strong stance on this issue. This year's theme, "Space," inspired children to embark on a dynamic journey through the universe. Activities ranged from astronaut checks in classrooms to star-catching in gymnasiums, ensuring a fun-filled experience that encouraged movement.
"Movement should not be an add-on in school life; it should be a natural part of it. The participating schools clearly demonstrate how simple and effective this can be," stated Heinrich Deichmann, Chairman of the Board of DEICHMANN SE.
The winners of the nationwide competition have been announced:
- Grundschule Hagelstadt from Bavaria
- Nibelungenschule Viernheim from Hesse
- Grundschule Dippach from Thuringia
Grundschule Hagelstadt secured its victory through exceptional commitment. Under the motto "Mission: DFG Hagelstadt 2," the school crafted an imaginative and well-planned journey into space. With meticulous attention to detail, students and staff incorporated movement activities and collaborative events into the storyline, including a crawling "meteorite tunnel" and balance exercises as "zero-gravity training." Physical activity became firmly embedded in the school day, from brief sessions during lessons to active breaks, showcasing how enjoyment, motivation, and community can thrive together.
"Participating in 'Germany's Fittest Primary School' has generated immense enthusiasm among us," shared Alexandra Thannhäuser, Principal of Grundschule Hagelstadt. "Our students participated with incredible motivation and joy, inspiring each other. It was heartwarming to see how naturally movement became part of our school routine. This project highlights the importance of regular exercise. We will carry these positive impulses forward and continue them in the long term."
Patron Ekaterina Leonova at the Award Ceremony in Hagelstadt
During a festive award ceremony, supported by patron and professional dancer Ekaterina Leonova, Grundschule Hagelstadt officially received its title. In addition to the recognition, the winners were awarded a prize of €5,000.
Ekaterina Leonova expressed her admiration for the commitment and perseverance of the students: "As a dancer, I know that every success is built on many small steps. What impresses me most is the journey the children have taken together. Their enthusiasm and dedication demonstrate what is possible when we work together and do not give up."
In addition to the three national winners, DEICHMANN also recognized the top primary schools from each federal state, which received certificates and a prize of €500 each.
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Original-Content von: DEICHMANN SE, übermittelt durch news aktuell
