Obesity has increasingly become a major national health concern within the United States. Most alarming is how this epidemic is effecting America’s youth. According to the American Heart Association, more then 9 million children and adolescents between the ages 6 and 19 are considered overweight. In the past 30 years the percentage of overweight 6-11 year olds has risen from 4% to an astounding 17%. (American Heart Association, 2008) Despite the overwhelming evidence revealing the rapid growth of unhealthy living styles, many schools in the United States have actually begun to cut funding for physical education programs. How is this possible you ask? Doing their best Rod Tidwell impression from Jerry Maguire, school administrators will tell you, “SHOW ME THE MONEY!” It was reported on CBS’s The Early Show that as of 2005, it costs schools about $500,000 to create a physical education program. (Dakss, 2005) During this arduous economic climate, schools and taxpayers are not likely to support paying for physical education programs, especially when districts face threats of financial sanctions due to the No Child Left Behind Act. Schools are now almost handcuffed and forced to focus all of their attention to succeeding on math and English language arts exams. Curriculums now even place less emphasis on other academic subjects, such as social studies in order to meet the NCLB requirements. It is not surprising that physical education, a subject often not valued as highly as other academic subjects, is not only losing time spent on it, but receiving decreased funding as well. Programs are being cut and faculty members are losing their jobs.
According to the National Association for Sports and Physical Education, it is recommended that elementary school students receive 2 ½ hours of physical activity per week. This number is increased to 4 hours per week for middle and high school students. Unfortunately, only 6% of schools in the United States offer physical education classes on a daily basis. (Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, 2007) Clearly, the vast majority of America’s youth are not receiving proper physical activity. This is not only a problem now, but as they get older, these new adults will have poor health habits, resulting in further increased rates of obesity. Because so many schools have cut funding for physical education, responsibility rests with the student’s academic teachers to lead physical activities. The idea now in schools is to have more physical activity, not necessarily physical education. Some teachers have begun implementing 10-minute breaks for physical activity and games such as Simon says in order to meet the Surgeon General’s recommendation of 1 hour per day. Other educators have incorporated physical activity into the teaching of core subjects. They create games with movement that help reinforce academic topics. It’s a good way of peeking student’s interest, giving children who have trouble concentrating for long periods of time a break and an opportunity to get exercise.
Not only is physical activity important to promote a healthy lifestyle and fight obesity, exercise also supports the mind and academic success. There exists a misconception that reducing physical education and increasing time spent on core subjects will lead to improved academic achievement. However, in five different studies measuring the effects of physical education on academic work, it was found that increased time spent in physical education classes and doing other physical activity never hindered academic performance. Further, in some cases the increased activity resulted in increased grades and improved standardized test scores. (Gaus & Simpson, 2009). If funding for PE classes is going to be cut then teachers really need to be conscious of allotting time for activity. While this might be the only current solution, these types of in class activities are never as rigorous as regular physical education classes. Teachers are not trained to educate students on nutrition and exercise. As a result, the rising trend towards overweight and obese children is not likely to change. It is commonly noted that obesity is a tragic condition facing our country, but not enough is done to address the issue. Waiting till adulthood to address physical well-being is often too late Healthy living styles must be taught and reinforced starting at a young age. There is no better place for this education to occur then in school.
References
American Heart Association. (2008). Overweight and obesity – statistics.
Retrieved April 15, 2009, from American Heart Association statistical fact sheet
Web site: http://www.americanheart.org/downloadable/heart/1197994908531FS16OVR08.pdf
Dakss, B. (2005). Obesity up, phys ed down. Retrieved April 16, 2009, from CBS News
Web site: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/01/27/earlyshow/contributors/debbyeturner/main669760.shtml
Gaus, M. D. & Simpson, C. G. (2009). Integrating physical activity into academic
Pursuits. Retrieved April 16, 2009, from Bnet Industries Web site:
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa4009/is_200901/ai_n31172076/
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. (2007). Active education: Physical education,
Physical activity and academic performance. Retrieved April 16, 2009, from
Active Education Web site: http://www.activelivingresearch.org/files/Active_Ed.pdf
http://www.activelivingresearch.org/
49 responses so far ↓
lbeach // April 20, 2009 at 5:33 pm |
Are the days of PE really numbered. This is a scary realization that many schools and students are starting to realize. For years doctors and parents have been concerned about obesity in their children but what has been done about it. We are taking away the childrens’ opportunity to exercise in schools and parents now rely on TV to babysit their children, so what are we to expect is going to happen. It’s nice to hear that other subject areas are trying to compensate by working physical activity into their classrooms but how many will buy into this. Will administrators rely allow time to be taken away from math and english so that the students can get some sort of physical activity Unfortunately with the importance of standardized tests I don’t see many schools implementing this. I don’t know what the answer to this problem is but something does need to be done before we have put our children into serious health risks.
pbssteno // April 20, 2009 at 8:00 pm |
There is an obesity epidemic in our country. It is unthinkable that schools would cut the physical education budgets. If we need anything, it is for them to be increased. The schools have some responsibility here.
There are many problems that, as a society, need to be addressed. As a parent, I know how difficult it is to take my children out to eat and find something healthy on a menu. Those choices are few and far between. They are there, but you have to look hard for them. Frequently, food is served in portions that are too large. A restaurant meal is several meals rolled into one. Besides physical education, it is important children learn about good eating habits, what a healthy food choice is, and what constitutes a reasonable portion of food to eat. As a parent, I try and set a good example for my children by modeling good eating habits, not being overweight myself and exercising for 30 minutes on most days. I know my children watch what I do all the time. Unfortunately, not all parents model proper exercise/nutritional behavior for their children. I also try to buy food that will contribute to good health rather than take away from it.
As far as academics go, it is great to prioritize education and learning, but not at the expense of physical education. Heart disease is the number one killer in this country. Stress academic success all you want, but what’s the good of making a lot of money if you don’t live long enough to enjoy it? I think as a nation we need to stop, think, evaluate and get our priorities back on the right track. What could be more important than maintaining a child’s health?
mjg0413 // April 21, 2009 at 12:28 am |
This is a real shame that schools across the country are being financially forced to cut their PE programs. Physical exercise is paramount in the education of our children. The energy exerted during gym classes help keep the mind clear and sharp. A healthy body will promote a healthy mind, ready to learn. Having in class lessons which incorporate physical activity is a great idea but in no way can it be a replacement for gym. Keeping the children cooped up in the classroom all day will lead many of them to become disengaged and fatigued from learning.
stimey13 // April 22, 2009 at 1:18 am |
I think that cutting physical education programs should not be an option. Student’s already do not get into the gym on a daily bases. Their days in the gym are numbered and we wonder why the percent of obesity in our country keeps raising. Exercise should be a part of student’s everyday lives. If we enforce that exercising is important at a young age then children will be more likely to be healthier as they get older. However, I definitely agree that if cuts are made to physical education teachers should have to add physical activities into their lessons. Do I really think that is fair to the teachers? No, but at the same time it’s what’s best for the students. That way even though they are losing actual gym time they will still be exercising during the day. Overall, I think administrators should do their best to keep the psychical education programs going strong.
meghanwoodstock // April 22, 2009 at 8:53 pm |
This topic is very important. It is frightening to know that in the last 30 years, obesity has increased so much in young children. Physical activity is important for young children to be involved with.
I work in an elementary school on Long Island and we do not reach the required hours of Physical Education each week. Due to this, every morning our students say the Pledge of Allegiance and then do a different dance each morning which they had learned in gym class. Monday through Friday is a different dance each morning last about 5 minutes. This alone is allowing the children 25 more minutes of physical activity a week.
Every little bit counts. I think its a great idea for classroom teacher to incorporate physical activity throughout the day. Not only do our children and students need more exercise they also could use the 5-10 minutes breaks throughout the day to rest their minds and re-cooperate for the next lesson.
mlny83 // April 24, 2009 at 7:01 am |
The fact that physical education class is on it’s way out is pretty sad. Children need this activity during their day to release some energy and to take advantage of just being a kid!
Sure obesity is an epidemic nowadays – but phys ed class isn’t really part of the big picture. I think more responsibility needs to be put on the parents. Phys ed class should not by any means be a childs only source of exercise during the week.
I think phys ed class really just focuses on the smaller picture – allowing kids to refuel and regroup in the middle of their school day.
More needs to be done to make physical activity part of an every day routine – not just twice a week for a half hour.
krubino1 // April 25, 2009 at 12:33 am |
Cutting the PE program is a scary thought. The fact that gym is only offered once a week is not enough, and now they want to get rid of it. Having gym helps the children to become more active and gives them a break from their regular everyday class. Everyone talks about how this country has a problem with obesity but I feel that cutting gym will only make it worse. If you are not active when you are young your chances of becoming active when you are older are slim.
edwardchlanda // April 25, 2009 at 2:53 am |
I couldn’t agree more with this article. Cutting of Phys. Ed. programs is something that needs to be highly reconsidered. This article brings about the problem of obesity within our youth today. This obesity problem will only get worse with the removal of Phys. Ed. programs. The only physical activity some kids get is through the school, being Phys. Ed. or recess. Playing outside is becoming more and more rare these days with technology being the main focus of kids. Between computers, video games and TV kids are totally engaged in anything by physical activity. The idea of giving kids a break during their academic studies is also something to be thought about. Kids brains need a break during a day full of information processing. Kids need a chance to get out of their desks and let loose for a little while. Phys. Ed. is a chance for kids brains to take a break and ultimately get recharged for the rest of the day. Phys. Ed. is something we need within our curriculum and is just as important as social studies and math.
ald88 // April 25, 2009 at 1:53 pm |
I think cutting Phys.Ed. is a horrible decision on the part of schools for the reasons mentioned in above comments, such as being an activity break in the day to keep children more focused, and because it is usually the only activity they get during the day. While it sounds good to have children do 10 minutes of activity during lessons because they are getting “some” activity, I can’t imagine them actually getting enough activity to ward off childhood obesity, and in doing so they are taking away from the lesson time. However, I think parents need to get involved and make sure their children are being active at some point throughout the day. Instead of letting their children play videogames or watch t.v. from the time school lets out until they go to sleep parents should make sure at some point children are outside running around, or playing a sport if they can afford to have their child on a league, or through the school (though many schools are now cutting athletic programs). Another way is that many gyms now are offering memberships for child classes, if they can afford it I think that would be a great idea too. So while I think Phys. Ed. should remain in schools as it is very important, I think parents also need to play a role in the activity of their children.
alexistrudel // April 25, 2009 at 11:02 pm |
I think it is a shame that physical education is being cut from public schools, especially when childhood obesity is hitting epidemic proportions. Yes, Physical education will not cure all the problems with child hood obesity but it will at least get students involved in some exercise and physical activity. Besides the obvious health issues physical education allows for a much needed release of pent up energy that students have especially students with ADHD. Studies show that exercise has a positive effect on students with ADHD. How can schools ignore the positive effects that physical education has on the lives and health of the students, I just dont know.
jlaboyne // April 26, 2009 at 2:51 am |
I’m not gonna lie when I was younger I hated gym class and pretty much just sat around and socialized unless we were doing a sport that I liked. But at least I had the option whether or not to participate and it was a chance to get a break from the being crammed with information all day long. Now having learned about all the different aspects of what goes into schooling and with the government making cutbacks to certain activities I really think its a shame that kids don’t get to take a break from being force fed information all day long because of the pressure of high stakes tests, especially for those who really need it. Fast food has become such a quick-fix for many families that are constantly on the go and because of that we’re becoming increasingly overweight. I was shocked that only 6% of schools had phys ed for students everyday, especially since I had it available everyday pre-k through high school. I think the ten minute breaks are a good idea in the elementary schools to do some kind of activity but I don’t think that would be possible at the high school level as we only get 45 minutes a day with the students and thats barely enough time as it is. Lastly, I think the creating activities with movement that reinforce academic projects is a great idea because it gets them moving, it gets them stimulated and their not going to be sleeping on their desks or not paying attention.
artsy313 // April 26, 2009 at 7:29 pm |
I knew that there were cut backs being made for art and music classes, but now physical education classes, too?? Soon, all we are going to be left with in schools is pure academics! It is scary to think that obesity in children has risen that much in the last 30 years, but it is even scarier to think that schools cannot afford to have enough gym classes for their students. It’s hard to blame the schools because they are faced with having to live up to test scores and such that they don’t know where to make the cuts, but something has to be done about this. If obesity is that much of an issue, we need to have enough PE time in schools, period! I like the idea of implimenting physical activities into academic classes, and I think if teachers are able to do that then it is great. And I agree that kids need a little bit of an exercise break here and there in between all of their academic classes. Children need to clear their heads so that they can maintain their focus. Not giving them any time to break and relax is only going to hurt them. Even taking 5 minutes out of class time to stand up and stretch could really make a difference. I think this article addresses a really important issue and hopefully changes will be made before kids lose out.
tagnes86 // April 26, 2009 at 11:37 pm |
I found this article to be extremely interesting! It is sad that P.E. is now recognized as one of the “not so important” subject areas of school, when in fact it is important! Obesity is a growing problem in our country, and it’s a fact that if you train your children to exercise and care for their bodies when they’re young, they will become more healthy adults. I have a friend who is a gym teacher at a long island school who was only given maybe a few hundred dollars for new gym supplies (from the budget). He told me that basically, it narrows down to 35 cents a child. I think that gym should be recognized as an important part of a child’s education, and that gym should be offered at least 30 minutes every day!
inspired2teach // April 27, 2009 at 1:32 am |
Physical education is absolutely one of the answers to solving the current health problems affecting our world–what students know about health and the habits they form start off so early in development, so it is necessary to include Phys Ed in the curriculum. I think that Phys Ed typically gets a negative response from students because it seems to be a dreaded activity for many students, rather than one that is made to be interesting and purposeful. Phys Ed teachers need to be good leaders and educators, serving as positive role models in terms of health and attitudes towards gym and exercise. Phys Ed teachers have a large task, possibly larger than ever before, because they need to ultimately encourage all students to participate and excel in gym activity, as well as drill in the message to students that eating right and exercise go hand in hand for good health.
jenjohnson1861 // April 27, 2009 at 2:29 pm |
I think if government is going to start taxing surger drinks then that money should go directly to the schools to fund phyical education classes. THis may be the only activity that a child gets. Many households have both parents working & there may not be the oppertunity for students to play outdoors after school.
I also think it is a good idea for teachers to spend some time during the day to play simon says is a good idea. In 3rd grade I had a teacher who used to have use play games like simon says or do jumping jacks every day. She was the only teacher I ever had who use to do that, but after all these years I still remember it & it was a lot of fun.
yanksplaya29 // April 28, 2009 at 2:07 am |
I could not agree more with this article. it is amazing how obesity rates are growing in the US. Kids now play video games instead of going to the park. I remember when I was a kid, I loved gym, as soon as school ended I was at the park playing handball or basketball. I think it isn’t so much the schools job to teach the kids about nutrition as it is the parents. Don’t let your kid play 6 hrs of video games. Take your son or daughter to the park; try and eat healthy. If they see you being active and healthy then they will follow your lead. It amazes me I work at a camp and some of the 8 year old boys weigh like 120 pounds. I don’t get it. i feel like when I was a student this problem wasn’t here. I think as I mentioned before the parents have to take action and help there kids become healthy.
jackiehali29 // April 28, 2009 at 3:12 am |
I feel that physical education is one of the most important classes for students of all age groups. It is necessary that they get physical activity to lead a healthier lifestyle as well as get to release their energy as young students. There are so many unhealthy habits that young students have picked up in today’s society such as smoking cigarettes and eating junk food; the last thing they need is to be sedentary which can lead to future weight problems. Students also need to have the chance to release pent up energy for emotional reasons such as releasing stress and serotonin to the brain to lead to a more positive way of living.
amebec23 // April 28, 2009 at 4:11 am |
Obesity is not just something that happens to a child. Although it can be genetic, there are always precautions to be taken to keep a Childs health under control. Some of this comes from the home but a large contributor is what our school systems incorporate into a student’s education. Cutting any specialty classes are always disappointing, but eliminating physical education can jeopardize a Childs health. A student who has a 45 minute period of gym class is encouraged to move around and engage in physical activity with their peers. This helps ensure a proper health conditions as well as social interaction with peers. Eliminating PE could be a danger to a student’s physical and mental health!
dcfarrell // April 28, 2009 at 2:34 pm |
Obesity is becoming a growing problem with both children as well as adults in the United States. I believe that educators need to stress the importance of students eating healthy and staying active in their curriculum. I also believe that by possibly having parent workshops on the importance of keeping children active and healthy would help as well. I think that by removing physical education in schools will be sending the message that staying active is not important. Students look forward to physical education because it is a time where they can be active and relieve built up emotions. I believe that by removing physical education in schools will only be detrimental to children’s physical and psychological growth.
missorangesweetness // April 28, 2009 at 5:48 pm |
I found this article to be right on point, physical eduction is so important and students should be given the opportunity to incorporate it in their daily curriculum. I can remember growing up when we had gym it was twice a week and we would get the chance to unwind and exercise. Hey it beats sitting in a classroom all day. I find that students need to understand that staying fit and active is very important because it keeps your body strong and you have more energy to tackle the subjects in other classes. If students spend all day conformed to one classroom and sitting for long periods of time they tend to get even more restless and less focused on the class assignments. Why do you think kid’s are extremely active during recess? It’s because children happen to have so much bottled up energy while they are in class and once they get the chance to let off some of that energy it almost seems overwhelming for them. Physical Ed. should be mandatory and should be viewed just as important as all the other subject. If students stay active the less likely they are to suffer from obesity.
sdmiller27 // April 29, 2009 at 3:20 am |
I think that physical education is an important part of the school curriculum … when properly implemented. Just the other day, I had a discussion with someone about gym class and assessment. In her school, she was graded on participation and skill development. In my school, which was considerably larger, I got an A if I showed up on a regular basis. In the winter, due to a lack of space, the girls would watch, and sometimes actually follow along with, workout videos in the hall. Boys went to the equipment room and the rest were left in the gym to play basketball or soccer. To me, this is not an effective physical education routine, and it is doing nothing for the obesity problem in this country.
tgt2009 // April 29, 2009 at 11:07 am |
Along with healthy eating, physical fitness is key to keep a child focused, healthy, and less likely to act out. Schools have substantially cut back on athletic programs and you can see it in the lack of physical fitness among the schools student populations. There is also an unprecedented amount of ADD/ADHD that has been diagnosed as of late. I can’t help but think the lack of physical activity has somehting to do with this phenomenon.
saz144 // April 29, 2009 at 4:00 pm |
I agree that physical education is very important in the school system. With the rise of childhood obesity, schools need to step in and take charge of students health while they are in school. Learning about nutrition and exercise is a part of education, therefore it should be taught in school. I agree that classroom teachers are not trained to educate children in the areas of health and exercise, so leave that to the PE teachers, that’s their job. I don’t believe playing games such as Simon Says in the classroom is a sufficient way for the child to get their daily exercise.
In today’s world of computers and video games, too many children are staying indoors to play and not getting any exercise outside of school. Fact is, children perform better physically and academically when they are taught about the right things to eat and right ways to be active. So why cut PE programs from schools if it will only help students in the long run?
darwinsbeard // April 30, 2009 at 8:27 pm |
PE is an important part of school life. I think some activities that offer little exercise can definitely be removed, like for instance square dancing. However, physical activity is an important aspect to have in school. It gives you a break from the mentally draining and stressful classrooms, and could allow students who might struggle with academics but are good athletes excel in school and give them something to feel good about.
In regards to obesity, how about changing foods in the lunchrooms. I don’t know if it changed now but in my lunchroom, there were cheeseburgers and french-fries everyday, and cookies and other sweets, as well as vending machines that sold soda and other high sugar beverages.
I also just wanted to mention a study that observed people who exercise and don’t diet, and others who diet but don’t exercise and found that generally the people who exercise and aren’t dieting were healthier than the other group.
ecyoung // May 2, 2009 at 9:10 pm |
PE is important to have in schools, especially since obesity in children is a problem. However, you cannot rely on the schools alone to be the only source of physical activity. Parents should be doing more at home to ensure the health of their children. The obesity epidemic is a serious problem and it requires the schools and the parents involvement in the diets and physical activities of the students. Although gym classes do offer physical activity ,there are plenty of children who do not participate actively in gym class and are not encouraged to either. It seems that children that may not be athletic are sitting out on the bleachers. The schools need to come up with a better solution for all students to receive some form of physical activity during the day.
flaviama // May 3, 2009 at 5:19 pm |
I believe Phys. Ed has a more important reason to exist other than to provide exercise for students. First of all it does not provide exercise since it is provided for only a few hours a week. I think Phys Ed. is important because it exposes students to different forms of exercise. I think Phys. Ed. should also teach different forms of healthy living such as nutrition and how it relates to exercise.
Brad // May 3, 2009 at 9:34 pm |
PE class is important because for many children it is the only physical activities they participating, but also it teaches children real world lessons on competing, winning, losing, teambuilding, and much more. The ability to cope with the associated emotions which correspond to these real life scenarios everyone encounters is important that children are going to succeed in life.
The term “Wussification” of American children is a relatively new, but very real and comes to mind after reading your blog.. Americans like to pamper their kids, over-protect them, and try to avoid situations where they are disappointed, to the point that we’re doing them a disservice. Kids aren’t learning how to get hurt, lose, and fend for themselves on their own. These are all important parts of growing up.
I agree with your premise, and I’m gravely concerned that the topic is even open for discussion.
keisha1 // May 4, 2009 at 4:36 am |
I too found this article to be extremely interesting! Phys. Ed. cut from schools?! How is P.E. not recognized as one of the “not so important” subject areas of school, when it is extremely important and for most kids it is. Obesity is a growing problem in our country as one commentator states, some kids look forward to PE sessions as a means to help decrease their weight. If there is no PE what will children do, sit and play video games, watch T.V., sit around on the internet on myspace and facebook continuously? Where is the physical activity in that? Children should be very active and parents need to take a stand and encourage their children on the importance of a physical education and being physical. My concern is, what will the government do with the cash that poured into schools for PE founding? Will they use it to do something more productive? I think not! We have to stress the importance for PE in schools becasue for some students, that is where they get educated on health issues or vent their frustrations.
irish44cb // May 4, 2009 at 6:57 pm |
The fact that P.E . is quickly becoming a “phased out” component of the educational experience is just unbelievable to me. As stated in this article and in many of the responses, obesity is a huge problem within our culture and not exposing children to physical activity on a regular basis can only make it worse. Even more important is the need for children to have that “release” of energy. I shutter to think what a classroom will be like when it’s packed with children overflowing with pent up energy and no means of releasing it. How many kids from that class will be misdiagnosed with ADD? It’s a shame.
vdreye1 // May 4, 2009 at 7:53 pm |
The thought of P.E. being cut is something rather scary. Other then helping get the children active it breaks the day up for them and helps them come back to class more willing and ready to learn.
mitchsteinberg // May 4, 2009 at 8:54 pm |
I think Phys ed is an absolute necessity for for a childs school schedule. Many student will not get any other exercise other than that gym period. Lots of children get home from school, eat and sit in front if the TV for hours until they do their homework. It sounds awful, but I know plenty of students who do that. Its just lack of support at home, and usually the parents are in an unhealthy condition as well. Its because these parents and families are not educated about how to eat and live healthy, they just don’t know any better. For these children, they need that gym period to get some sort of exercise. I also feel it is necessary to have family training seminars available to teach them how to live and eat healthy.
paulina1103 // September 17, 2009 at 12:09 am |
Physical education at risk? What? That is insane. Whether it’s music, art, or phys.ed I vote they all belong in a school curriculum. Any of these programs are very important to children and young adults just like math, science and English are. Just recently, as a matter of fact the other day I came across a video on yahoo.com about a little girl who was told she could never speak and that would have problems with speech growing up and what was the number one subject that helped her? Think hard.. was it Math? Nope you’re wrong. It was music! Through music class she was able to learn to use her voice. Now, what happens to all the students that because of those types of classes were able to succeed? Are those students put at risk?
tberman1 // September 17, 2009 at 1:35 am |
I feel that physical activity during school is extremely important. Depending on what age group we are talking about, older students may be able to get away without any gym time (because they might be able to work out on their own after school) but for younger children, releasing that extra energy is essential. As far as being a teacher, one would think that they would want their students full attention rather than fussing around in their seats and making learning more difficult. I think schools should reconsider what they choose to cut and keep in mind that giving students a break from school work is in their best interest, as well as the teachers.
bns129 // September 18, 2009 at 12:05 am |
With obesity and heart disease on the rise in this country and mentioned every day in the media, it is abysmal that so many school districts are cutting back on P.E. The requirement of 2.5 hours of physical activity for elementary school students is unbelievably low. Considering the the percentage of overweight 6-11 year olds has risen, this requirement should be increased to a minimum of at least 45 minutes a day! Exercise is extremely important for a healthy mind as well as body and the benefits of daily exercise should not be overlooked. Though getting several “breaks” to move around during the day is important and necessary, it cannot replace the
benefits of a concentrated period designated solely to exercise. I don’t believe the classroom teacher can or should have this responsibility placed in their already filled arena.
Perhaps there may be a correlation between the rise in Attention Deficit Disorders in both girls and boys and the recent decline in physical activity at school. This may be compounded by a lack of exercise at home as well but, as educators
we should see the problem and try to adjust the curriculum to allow for more exercise.
bigberg1 // September 22, 2009 at 2:34 am |
Still to this day, I have the greatest memories of my PE classes in elementary school. It was not only the running, jumping, and pushups that are part of the everyday PE class, but it was the team building, camaraderie, and sportsmanship that was also as valuable as the physical activity of PE. In today’s world of evolving technology there is less opportunity for children to have physical activity. Computers, personal play stations, and internet chat have enabled our children to become more and more overweight, often leading to obesity.
There are so many factors that effect a child in their journey of growth, how can we possibly take away, limit, or place less emphasis on PE? It is my belief that PE should be placed back into the full class spectrum and treated as any other class. Children need to be able to exert their energies and pressures in a controlled environment. Whether it is playing kickball, jump rope, or running track, Physical activity in schools is a vital issue and should remain in order to keep our kids healthy.
jesscannella // September 25, 2009 at 1:44 pm |
I think gym, Pe or Physical Education whatever you want to call it, is great. There IS a growing weight problem in America, and by teaching students about excersise and encourgaging it in schools it will help to ward off an even bigger problem in the future.
It’s like Dewy said, to teach children about society in ways that they will be able to use and can incoportate into their lives one day. This will make them active participants in society(teaching others about excerise, working out themselves or instructing their children how to), and hopefully lead to a reduction in the weight problem in the country.
rlasher2 // September 26, 2009 at 6:58 pm |
I completely agree with this article. Children today are becomin increasingly more lazy. As a member of the “instant gratification generation,” i intend to make sure this does not happen to the future of america. Teaching children to excersize is very important and worthwhile.
teacherjustin // September 29, 2009 at 2:06 am |
Ready? Dogeball!: Is Phys.Ed. The Answer to National Health Concerns or a Waste of School Funding?
By Adam Cirnigliaro
This article’s focus on physical education and obesity is way off. The writer has the right idea in looking for a way to fight obesity. However, relying on the schools will be ineffective. Poor nutritional habits are developed at home with the family. Chances are if the child is over weight, it is because the parents are not developing proper eating habits for their child. The fact is that their parents are probably over weight and unhealthy demonstrate poor eating habits for their children to emulate. Going to gym class for 40 minutes every other day will not fight obesity. Physical education will help educate children about fitness, exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, it is the parents responsibility to change theirs child’s eating habits, not the schools. Physical education is important in school though. The students need a way to release energy that is stored up through out the school day. This will help them focus in school and on their studies. School district who are disposing of physical education departments, are making a wrong decision. The teacher of the class room already has a full plate educating the students academically. Now making the classroom teacher responsible for teaching nutrition and exercise as well, is just over whelming. When are the school districts going to realize that getting rid of programs such as physical education is not the answer. Students need these programs so they can survive school without burning out.
jgrenville // September 30, 2009 at 3:32 pm |
If what this article is saying is really true. Then here is my take on these issues. There is an old saying” charity begins at home”. Parents need to be the first partaker of there child/ children health. Having said that if schools founding is being taking away from physical educational classes them we need to be at the PTA meetings to lend our voices and send our petitions to Albany. I think enough is being done to address the issue of obesity the question is are we really paying attention to what is being said? We all have a responsibility let’s stop the blaming game and step up to the challenge.
aek32087 // October 1, 2009 at 9:38 pm |
Obesity is on the rise and cutting physical education will not help. As it is right now, students usually attend gym about once or twice a week at school. Student spend most of their day sitting in a classroom learning different subjects. Teachers are required to teach students; so they can pass tests that are given. This causes schools to not give students more time in gym class. When students go home from school, they usually will have a lot of homework and they don’t have time to exercise. The lack of exercise could lead to various health problems among children.
tsaul07 // October 4, 2009 at 5:19 pm |
It is unfortunate that childhood obesity is on the rise. Today, children are spending more time in front of a television, using the computer and playing video games then running around outside or playing sports with friends. Not only are children sitting around watching tv but they watch an overwhelming amount of tv ads from fast food chains. Children who watch these ads are more likely to select foods high in fat and sugars rather than a well balanced meal. On top of that our children, our future generation will loose out on physical education due to funding cuts. Physical education should be a requirement in all schools. I believe physical education helps fight childhood obesity, increases academic performance and a child’s overall state of well being. Spending hours sitting a chair with their over active brains can be exhausting. Being able to stretch, move around, releasing some stress needs to be a requirement, not an option. We should not give up just because our government has cut funding. We need to find other ways to support our children and help them lead a healthy, active life.
Teachers could implement warm-up activities in between academic subjects, fun fitness activities or even use music to play games and move around. It is not only the teachers responsibility to implement physical activity, it is the parents job as well. Parents should set limits on time spent in front of a tv or or during other passive activities. Parents should encourage physical activity and sports within the community and neighborhood.
davidalt928 // October 8, 2009 at 3:37 am |
I believe that good health is good for the mind. It is important for children to experience as much physical activity keeping them in good health and shape. Phsyical Education along with health should be mandatory in all schools and someone should make sure children get enough time being active as possible. Physical education should be considered one of the most important subjects for children. Do Not Cut Back the Funding!!!
kkcassidy // October 9, 2009 at 6:36 pm |
I believe that it is truly sad that some districts are being forced to cut physical education programs. It is extremely important for children to have physical education because it is teaching them of healthy lifestyles. Some question if physical education can help with the obesity problem. My answer to that is without a doubt. They are learning sports skills as well as life skills in physical education classes and it is the parents who need to encourage their children in keeping up with their learned skills. 10 minute breaks per day is not enough for these children. Good sound body, means a sound mind. It is good for both the students and classroom teachers for these students to have gym a few days a week to blow off steam and channel their bodies needs for exercise. Positive body image has been linked to a positive performance in school because it makes children confident. I love the authors point of view and agree that there should be absolutely no cutting of the funds towards ANY physical education programs. If people think that physical education is not helping the obesity and unhealthy trends in our children, they do not want to see what happens if these programs are cut!!
clovaton // October 11, 2009 at 10:06 pm |
As someone mentioned before “a healthy body will promote a healthy mind, ready to learn”. Cutting PE programs is not the best option for our children. If schools keep doing this, there will be a higher percentage of obese children and a striking increase of obese adults. If children don’t learn about physical activities and good eating habits at an early age, it will be harder to learn as adults.
clark1184 // October 12, 2009 at 12:11 am |
By cutting physical fitness programs in our schools we are doing more damage then good. As Americans we are one of the most overweight countries in the world. Students must learn at a young age that exercise and eating right is important. If they don’t they are destined to have poor physical health when they become older. In addition, students need time during the day to release energy. You cannot expect a student to remain at a desk or even in the same classroom for the entire day. They need to use exercise as a destressor. Being a student today is harder than ever before and by denying children these activities (PE Class) we are doing more harm then good.
jamsmar // October 12, 2009 at 4:07 pm |
The author stated that there is a new idea now in schools is to “have more physical activity, not necessarily physical education”. I think it is a great idea that some teachers have begun implementing 10-minute breaks for physical activity and games in between lessons, especially in schools that have cut phys. ed. out of their curriculum. Not only does that support the fight against obesity and all the health concerns, but it also regains focus for the students. I think a student is more likely to pay attention in class if they have breaks to move around and get their blood flowing, rather than just sitting in the same seat throughout class getting lectured. I also think implimenting physical movement into the actual lesson itself is a great idea as well.
mmorrissey86 // October 13, 2009 at 6:34 pm |
The sad truth is that there is an obesity issue in our country. I was surprised to read this article about PE programs being cut. When i observed in one of the school districts just last fall they were increasing PE time. The children must have PE even if it was for 15 minutes a day. The school had a schedule that rotated every other day 30-45 min and other days 15 min.
One of the comments talked about how the writer was off topic with looking to schools for help with our nations obesity issue. I agree in a way because it does start in the home. Just like the other comment, chances are if a child is overweight it is the parents fault for the childs diet. However, children need time to stretch and excersise. We cannot expect young children to sit through classes all day with no breaks except for lunch. Children need to burn off energy and cutting PE programs is a big mistake.
godsproperty2006 // October 28, 2009 at 8:35 am |
Obesity is a growing problem in the United States. The epidemic is affecting our youth today; according to the American heart association, more than 9 million children between the ages 6 and 19 have an overweight problem. Physical education can prevent health problems but it is very costly to have the program set up in the schools. Teachers should incorporate physical activity into their classrooms at least 10 minutes a day to relieve tension and frustration in the class and make the class more interested in learning. It is very important to have physical education in the school and to educate a student at an early age to prevent obesity. According to the US surgeons generals statement he believes students should have at least an hour a day to be active. The author feels that physical education should be taught an hour day in physical education class. I believe that physical education is important to have for the students because it keeps the student active and alert as well as being physically fit. This would help alleviate health problems at an early age and prevent obesity. In some cases there are students who are obese and it is difficult for them to participate in some of the physical activity as well as to keep there weight at a certain pound. It is still important to incorporate physical education in the school so the students could participate and become active in order to have good health, although obesity is still a problem.
lcbetz // December 17, 2009 at 6:55 am |
Reading this article gets me thinking about what gym class was like while i was in high school, which wasn’t all that long ago. Most of the students would find any excuse not to participate and the activities that were offered to us barely made us break a sweat. With the obesity problems that we have in this country we should be increasing P.E. time and creating curriculum that addresses how to eat well and how to keep healthy.
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