Under NY State law, all students in grades kindergarten–12, including students with disabilities, must have Physical Education (PE) as part of their education. I agree with the idea that this should be required. Physical Education is crucial because it benefits all students’ physical and mental health.
Though, some students think this is a waste of time. Students sometimes do not understand the importance of exercise, leading them to complain. However, the pros are seen to outweigh the cons.
CDC Healthy Schools states that exercise can “…reduce the risk of developing health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and obesity.” This is important to have in mind while growing up. By exercising, you can improve your chances of staying well, feeling good, and living longer.
With schools providing Physical Education classes it does nothing but benefit your health. Though it does take away a student’s time to do work, it is actually seen as benefiting students’ abilities to complete assignments.
University College London states, “When you do any type of intense physical activity, it causes blood to flow to the brain. This in turn fires up your neurones and promotes cell growth, particularly in the hippocampus.”
Therefore, physical activity allows you to concentrate better, proving it is not a waste of time. Physical Education sets a student up to do better on school work.
Also, while Physical Education benefits a student’s physical health, it also improves mental health. HelpGuide.org states, “Exercise is a natural and effective anti-anxiety treatment. It relieves tension and stress, boosts physical and mental energy, and enhances well-being through the release of endorphins.” This is valuable for a student while growing up.
Mental health is a big issue for many students. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows “In 2023, 4 in 10 students (40%) had persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. In 2023, 2 in 10 (20%) students seriously considered attempting suicide and nearly 1 in 10 (9%) attempted suicide.”
Schools putting in the effort of requiring Physical Education classes purely improve a student’s life. The focus on good mental health for all is crucial, and if Physical Education leads to this, it should most definitely be a requirement among students.
Mayo Clinic states, “The health benefits of regular exercise and physical activity are hard to ignore. Everyone benefits from exercise, no matter their age, sex, or physical ability.” There is no excuse not to exercise.
Overall, the NY State law that all students in grades kindergarten–12, including students with disabilities, must have Physical Education (PE) as part of their education is extremely useful for all students. Students should be grateful for this law, and grateful that schools put effort into their mental and physical health, not just focusing on grades. Given the benefits to mental as well as physical wellness, physical education must be a top focus in everyday life.
