The Positive Impacts of Physical Education

Academic excellence is encouraged for all students, but the role of physical education (PE) is sometimes overlooked. However, the need goes beyond spending 20-30 minutes in a gym or outside. Here are some reasons why physical education plays such an important role for students:

1. Encourages Physical Health: 

Healthy habits are developed at an early age. Making exercise part of your everyday routine boosts one’s overall health from strengthening muscles to good heart health, and children have the opportunity in PE classes to participate in physical activities on a regular basis. 

2. Improves Motor Skills: 

PE classes involve a variety of movements such as running, hopping, skipping, jumping, throwing, etc.  This improves skills such as agility and coordination, which are important for living an active lifestyle. 

3. Enhances Cognitive Function: 

Cognitive functions such as concentration and memory are increased through exercise. PE classes allow students to step away from the classroom to refresh their minds, which can benefit academic performance. 

4. Cultivates Relationships: 

PE classes also provide opportunities for students to learn important life skills such as how to be leaders, working as a team and practicing good sportsmanship. This allows students to learn how to communicate effectively and work through conflict – which will be valuable throughout life.

5. Fosters Positive Mental Health:

Staying active is known to help decrease stress along with helping symptoms of anxiety and depression. Children have the opportunity to let out energy and improve their emotional well-being keeping them happy and healthy. 

6. Promotes Self-Esteem: 

Whether a child is athletic or not, PE classes encourage all students to try their best through participation. Students learn about treating others with kindness, respect and acceptance.