The Wading River School gymnasium was packed with climbing equipment as fourth grade students navigated the one-way course as part of a long tradition called Whittle Gym. The space-themed physical education unit was designed to challenge students to climb in various ways while testing and honing their fine and gross motor skills,  building stability and balance, and providing a natural method of strength training.   

Physical education teachers Teresa Patti and John Regazzi explained that Whittle Gym is the second of three similar units, each with its own theme. As students matriculate through the school, they receive a varied version. Third graders are provided a national parks theme, and fifth graders enjoy an under the sea theme. Fourth graders climb through outer space through use of gymnastic rings, climbing structures, a rope climb to scale the wall, a rock wall, cargo net and single rope to climb and swing. All stations focus on upper body strength. 

“Whittle Gym is really considered a district tradition,” Mr. Regazzi said. “The students definitely look forward to the unit [for their grade] each year.”