10+ Benefits of Physical Education in Schools

Kickball, badminton, four squares—whatever you consider physical activity, it is hard to deny the bodily benefits! Physical education—once a standard in schools—is now a fast-fading program to compensate for shrinking public school budgets. Learn about the benefits of physical education in schools! In addition, take charge and find a school that prioritizes physical education in its curriculum.

Benefits of Physical Education in Schools

1. Improves Physical Fitness

Run, jump, and spin! Kids can do it all but in recent years this is changing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 1 in 5 school-age children in the United States are obese leading to further health complications. Nevertheless, regular physical activity can improve this statistic!

2. Motor Skill Development

If you don’t use it, you’ll lose it! Regular aerobic activity develops optimal motor control over large limbs like the arms and legs, and fine motor skills associated with smaller muscle groups.

3. Reduced Stress

Children weren’t meant to sit behind desks all day! Physical education is an outlet for pent up tension and anxiety that a student may hold onto otherwise.

4. Improved Academics

Did you know that physical activity can improve academics? Numerous studies advocate for more aerobic activities during the school day to stimulate the brain. For example, a Dartmouth study suggests that 12 minutes of exercise can improve attention and reading comprehension in low-income populations!

5. Strengthens Peer Relationships

Students socialize and build comradery through various physical activities! Whether they’re paired up for team sports or cheering one another on through an obstacle course, physical education is a fun environment to make friends and bond.

6. Reduced Risk of Depression

Physical activity promotes the release of the feel-good chemical known as dopamine! Dopamine released in large amounts creates feelings of pleasure and happiness. In contrast, insufficient dopamine in the brain is linked to the feeling of depression. Physical activity stimulates the brain to release dopamine!

7. Improved Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem

It goes without saying but aerobic exercise is good for both the body and mind. Regular physical education can empower students to become confident, assertive, emotionally-stable, and independent!

8. Experience Setting Goals

In a constructive environment, students learn to set goals. In addition, in this environment, students receive the encouragement of their peers to strive for and achieve a personal goal.

9. Practice Self Discipline

A structured physical education program can teach a student to follow rules and procedures. In addition, students are encouraged to take on the responsibility of their health and well-being.

10. Promote Healthy Habits

Physical education is the appropriate environment for students to learn lifelong habits that will affect their overall health and wellbeing! Students are exposed to various physical activities to pursue going forward, and learn about positive eating behaviors.

11. Improved Complete Sleep

We can all benefit from more sleep! With this in mind, studies suggest that physical activity can improve a person’s quality of sleep leaving students refreshed and ready for a full school day.

Let’s Move!

Overall, physical education is an integral component of schooling. Among many things, it releases much-needed dopamine to increase student morale. In addition, physical activity stimulates the brain—in turn, improving a student’s ability to comprehend and retain knowledge. The benefits of physical education in schools is undeniable! Choose a school that incorporates comprehensive physical education into its curricula like Academies of Math and Science Charter! AMS Charter offers a wide variety of school sports, lessons, clubs and teams based on student interest. These activities provide students a productive break from traditional school and help to build confidence and life skills like time management, teamwork, goal setting, and more. Learn more about AMS Charters physical education program, advanced STEM curriculum, or enroll your student in the upcoming semester!