While some may consider gym class a second-rate period for kids to blow off steam and fill some time in the school day, the benefits are quite intriguing. From improving health on a physical and emotional level to promoting social skills, this class needs more notoriety. While it may not be considered an academic class in many curricula, it is just as important because of the benefits of physical education.

Physical activity can have a significant impact on people of all ages, but it is particularly important for school-aged children. As children grow and learn, this is one facet of their development that should not be overlooked. It is so beneficial that schools should have mandatory physical education (P.E.) time built into their curriculum if they do not already.

Physical Benefits

It is well-documented knowledge that exercising for at least 30 minutes daily is a great way to stay physically healthy. Physical health can delay the onset of disease and statistically increase life expectancy. Daily P.E. classes, particularly at the junior high and high school levels, are a great way to keep teens active who might otherwise begin an early onset of a sedentary lifestyle.

It is clear that physical health contributes to living longer, but it can also be a cause for improving the quality of life. Physical activity is vital for promoting long-term health. It also contributes to health benefits beyond the physical sense.

It can also have positive effects on mental health as well. This is becoming even more important for students because mental health is an alarming issue for young people, particularly during the pandemic.

Psychological Benefits

It is no secret that many teenagers go through phases where they struggle with self-image issues. Weight gain can be a major issue with young people, physically speaking and psychologically, which can contribute to mental health issues. Regular exercise achieved in physical education classes can combat this issue. Exercise also has other benefits to promote mental health, such as reduced stress, improved mood, better self-esteem, and increased mental alertness. All of these benefit students in highly positive ways.

In an era when students are struggling with mental health at an alarming rate, physical education classes can certainly help combat this major issue. The pandemic has caused so many issues for students and adults in coping with mitigation and government mandates. Teens already had a high rate of mental health problems before the pandemic. Still, the recent COVID-19 pandemic strategies have worsened existing mental issues among students and have created brand new ones in others.