Why PE Class is Important

DietsInReview

By Mathue Johnson, fitness expert for DietsInReview.com

Physical fitness is a vital part of human nature and the body needs plenty of it for normal functioning. There are five components of physical fitness and they are all interrelated.

Cardiovascular endurance is the strength and endurance of the heart and its ability to pump blood throughout the body. It is recommended that the average human needs at least 20 to 30 minutes of cardiovascular training per day.



Muscular strength is the next component of physical fitness and it is referred to as the muscles ability to apply maximum strength against physical objects. Muscular strength is important for maintaining correct posture, spinal alignment, and strong, dense bones.

Muscular endurance is the third component and is important for correct posture, spinal alignment, and strong, dense bones.

Flexibility, which is beneficial by improving the muscle's range of motion. By doing so, the body is less susceptible to injury and muscle soreness as well as improved posture and coordination.

Body composition is referred to as the percent of body fat compared to lean muscle mass and other organs. The normal recommended range for women is 18 to 25 percent and the normal recommended range for men is 8 to 14 percent.

With all that being said, it is extremely important to teach the positive characteristics of over-all physical fitness to young children. By instilling these vital healthy habits in young kids, they will be able to make a lifestyle out of it.

So, why is physical education, or PE, in school important? I'm going to go ahead and let you answer this question! How do you feel after sitting at work all day? Tired and lacking energy? Exactly; the same goes for young children. Physical education in schools is important for not only teaching students about proper health and nutrition, but to allow each and every student to be actively involved. Involvement in PE during the school day has been proven to provide an extensive amount of benefits, including:

  • Enhanced learning readiness

  • Improved self-esteem (important for young students)

  • Improved academic performance

  • Improved concentration

  • Improved social skills

  • Reduced anxiety and depression (again, important for young students)

  • Increased energy levels (increases mental alertness)

  • Improved standardized test scores


Recess is equally important, as it gives kids a chance to stretch their legs, run around, and even socialize. If your school is looking at cutting either of these programs from its schedule, work with other parents to urge them not to do it. It might save a portion of their budget in the short-term, but it will be to your child's detriment in the long-term.

Learn more about fitness for kids:

Michelle Obama's Let's Move Campaign

Five Yoga Tools for Happy, Healthy School Kids

Healthy Lunch Box Swaps that are Good for Your Kids


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