Why Every Student Needs Physical Education in Their Curriculum

Physical education has been an essential component of the school curriculum for decades, providing students with the opportunity to keep their bodies fit and healthy. However, recent developments in society have led to a decline in physical activity, and with rising levels of obesity and other lifestyle-related diseases, it is crucial now more than ever to include physical education in school curriculums. This article will explore why every student needs physical education in their curriculum.

Physical Education and Its Benefits

The inclusion of physical education in a school curriculum provides many benefits to students in multiple ways. It plays an integral role in the physical and social development of a student, enhancing their academic performance and overall well-being. Here are some of the top benefits of physical education:

Physical Fitness

Physical fitness is an essential component required for a healthy life. Physical education helps students develop physical fitness by teaching movement skills, how to be physically active, and how to maintain good nutrition as a way to live a healthy life.

Mental Health

In most cases, physical education improves mental health through activity. Exercise releases endorphins in the brain, which create positive feelings and reduce stress and depression. Physical activities provide a break from studies, allowing students to unwind and reduce their stress levels.

Teamwork and Social Skills

Physical education instills valuable teamwork and social skills in students through group activities. It promotes cooperation, communication, and building relationships, which can apply to all areas of life.

Improved Academic Performance

Studies show that students who engage in physical education are more likely to perform better academically. The benefit of regular physical activity is an increase in mental alertness, resulting in better concentration, productivity, and focus when it comes to studying.

The Importance of Including Physical Education in School Curriculums

The inclusion of physical education in school curriculums has been essential for decades. It has been crucial in keeping children fit and healthy, as well as developing good habits that set the stage for the rest of their lives. However, in recent years, schools have been cutting back on physical education, citing budget cuts and concerns about academic performance. But the downsizing of physical education in schools may have serious consequences in the long run.

Obesity and Lifestyle-Related Diseases

It is no secret that obesity has become a global epidemic. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity rates have nearly tripled since the 1970s. Unfortunately, children and teenagers are amongst the most vulnerable groups susceptible to obesity. Physical education can help to reduce the risk of obesity in children by teaching them how to maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and maintaining healthy eating habits.

Lack of Adequate Physical Activity

Children do not get enough exercise outside of school, and to compensate for this, physical education must be a part of their daily routine. As children grow older, they begin to spend more time on sedentary activities such as watching TV, social networking, and video games, leading to an inevitable decline in their physical activity levels.

Conclusion

Physical education is a vital component of a school curriculum, and every student needs it to lead a healthy lifestyle. Students who engage in physical education generally have better academic performance and mental health than those who don’t. With the growing epidemic of childhood obesity, it is crucial to include physical education in school curriculum to promote exercise and good eating habits. Therefore, we urge schools and education policymakers to enhance and preserve the physical education curriculum so that students can remain fit and healthy.

FAQs

1) How Often Should Physical Education Be Offered in Schools?

Physical education should be offered daily to provide students with the level of physical activity required to maintain good health.

2) What Types of Activities Should Be Included in Physical Education?

Physical education should include a variety of activities, including aerobic exercise, strength training, and stretching exercises.

3) How Does Physical Education Impact Mental Health?

Physical education improves mental health by reducing stress levels and promoting endorphin production, creating a positive and happy mood.

4) Why Is the Inclusion of Physical Education Inevitable in Today’s Society?

Inclusion of physical education will help to reduce the negative consequences of sedentary living as well as promote physical fitness.

5) How Can We Ensure that Physical Education is Equally Accessible to Every Student?

We can ensure that physical education is equally accessible to every student by integrating it into the school curriculum, availing massive resources, and ensuring everyone has equal access to sports facilities.

6) What Are the Long-Term Consequences of Not Including Physical Education in School Curriculums?

The long-term consequences of not including physical education in school curriculums are a rise in obesity, low academic performances, and physical health problems.

7) What Are the Benefits of Inculcating Good Physical Education Habits in Children from a Young Age?

Inculcating good physical education habits in children from a young age will provide them with the necessary foundation to maintain a healthy lifestyle, helping them lead productive lives for years to come.

References

• World Health Organization. Obesity and overweight. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight.
• Let’s Move! America’s Move to Raise a Healthier Generation of Kids. Physical activity. https://letsmove.obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/physical-activity