Significance of Physical Education for School Students

Abstract

Physical education fosters personal and community wellness by empowering students to attain healthy, lifelong attitudes and behaviors through physical activity as part of the total educational experience. It: promotes a physically active lifestyle; o is a link to good health; o is a preventive measure against disease; o is a program for muscle strength and fitness; o promotes academic learning; o builds self esteem; and o develops cooperation, teamwork and sportsmanship skill The purpose of physical education is to instill in students, at an early age, the value of self preservation and choosing a lifestyle that is good for both the mind and body. Most physical education programs are holistic. The program allows student to interact together to a common goal and that is to win and excel physically. It brings out the competitive sides of students working both body and mind but also promotes sportsmanship. This paper primarily aims to ?give an insight into the health benefits of physical education programs for students within the school system. It also provides legislative / regulatory recommendations for the purpose of improving the quality of physical education. The paper concludes that by addressing the quality, quantity and intensity of physical education across the country (the educational as well as the activity component), policymakers will maximize children‘s potential for a lifetime of:  physical activity,  health, and wellness.