Ramadan guidance for college sport and physical activity
This guidance aims to support colleges and further education providers with information on how to accommodate and support students who are fasting. The guidance will provide information on what Ramadan is, why it is important and practical ways in which you can support your staff and students to ensure that they can safely and respectfully remain physically active during this time.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered one of the holiest periods for Muslims. During this month, Muslims around the world fast from dawn to sunset. This means they abstain from eating, drinking and other physical needs during daylight hours. Fasting during Ramadan known as Sawm, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the core beliefs and practices that every Muslim follows. The fast is broken each evening with a meal called Iftar, and the pre-dawn meal before the fast begins is called Suhur.
Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, increased devotion and worship. Muslims engage in additional prayers, read the Quran and strive to improve their behaviour and be more charitable. The month of Ramadan ends with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festival that marks the end of fasting and is a time for family gatherings, feasting and giving thanks.
Ramadan is incredibly important to Muslims for several reasons. It’s a time for Muslims to grow closer to Allah through increased prayer, reading the Quran and self-reflection. Their fasting from dawn to sunset helps Muslims develop self-control and discipline. By experiencing hunger and thirst, Muslims gain a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by those less fortunate, fostering empathy and compassion. Ramadan brings families and communities together, especially during Iftar and Suhur. Ramadan commemorates the month when the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), making it a time of great spiritual significance.
When supporting staff and students during their time at college it is important to know what could break a fast. Here are some actions to be considerate of during college times that could break a fast:
- Eating or drinking, consuming any food or drink, even in small amounts, will break the fast.
- Smoking breaks the fast, this includes cigarettes, vaping and other forms of smoking.
- Intentional vomiting breaks the fast. If someone deliberately induces vomiting.
- Menstruation and post-natal bleeding break the fast. Women experiencing these conditions must break their fast and make up for the missed days later.
- The taking of oral and nasal medication including inhalers, nebulisers, nasogastric intubation and bronchoalveolar lavage (exemption may be given for those who suffer from severe asthma).
However, accidental eating or drinking does not break the fast. If someone forgets they are fasting and eats or drinks, they should continue fasting as usual.
Engaging in sports and physical activity during Ramadan can be challenging due to the fasting requirements, but it’s definitely possible with some adjustments. Here are a few tips to help you support students to stay active and healthy during this holy month:
- Ensure staff that are teaching or leading in sports or physical activity sessions are aware of anyone who is fasting and if they have any additional medical conditions or needs.
- Consult students on what support they may need, being sympathetic in the approach and ensuring that they are not made to feel singled out or that they are being treated any differently.
- Be prepared to adapt any sessions to support students.
- In preparation for Ramadan, staff may want to incorporate information about extra hydration and slow energy-release foods to have during Suhur.
- Be proactive in your approach by aligning types of activities during curriculum and enrichment with Ramadan. For example, by planning activities that are less intensive or low endurance.
- Be prepared to support students in breaking their fast if their wellbeing or health is at risk. You may want to obtain parental consent, but ultimately ensure the student is safe and remind them they can make up that day at a later date.
Ways to adapt sessions:
- Increase the number of planned breaks.
- Focus on technical or tactical aspects rather than physical.
- Increase rotation in different active roles. For example in batting or fielding.
- Select less intensive sports or activities.
- Increase the use of students in officiating roles.
This guidance can be used to support students during Ramadan or other holy months where fasting occurs.
Supporting students in physical activity during Ramadan is crucial for fostering an inclusive and understanding college environment. By accommodating the needs of fasting students, schools demonstrate respect for their religious practices while promoting their physical well-being. This support not only helps maintain students’ health but also encourages their active participation in college activities. By engaging with students and providing tailored support, colleges can create a positive atmosphere where all students feel valued and understood, ultimately enhancing their overall educational experience.
For more support and guidance you can find the Ramadan Guidance for Schools and Educational Settings: Physical Education and Physical Activity here or email our Development Officer Yasmin Senior.