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In addition to health and wellness, preliminary research suggests a direct link between physical activity and improved academic performance. Studies have found that participation in physical activity increases adolescents’ self esteem, as well as their physical and mental health. They are also less likely to be regular or heavy smokers or use drugs or alcohol, and more likely to stay in school, have good conduct, and experience high academic achievement. Studies also show that good nutrition also enhances school achievement.3 For these reasons, schools must be concerned with students’ health and fitness. What Can Schools Do? Deborah Price, Deputy Under Secretary for Safe and Drug-Free Schools (OSDFS), encourages schools to develop comprehensive school health and fitness programs that foster healthy lifestyles. “A comprehensive physical education program does more than require children to exert themselves for an hour. It helps students understand what the physical and mental benefits of exercise are and how good nutrition is related to a healthy lifestyle,” Ms. Price commented. “When I was in school, PE focused on competition. Today, PE is evolving to bring children together to focus on physical activity, nutrition, and team-building. The students learn together and challenge one another to be their best.” In order to support such comprehensive PE programs, OSDFS administers the Carol M. White Physical Education Program, which provides funds for local education agencies and community-based organizations to implement research-based programs that address the physical, dietary, cognitive, and social aspects of physical fitness. (See related article.) “The statistics on obesity show us just
how important comprehensive PE programs are,” Ms. Price remarked.
“Problems related to being overweight can cause challenges
in the classroom and also have health and disease consequences.
That’s why all of us—parents, teachers, school administrators,
and the entire community—need to get involved to teach students
the skills they need to make healthy choices for the rest of their
lives.”
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