Schools Trying Creative Approaches to Keep Kids Fit
Everyone certainly knows all the benefits of staying physically fit..Lower blood pressure, a happier disposition, a more ideal body weight, and less stress. Now, add superior academic performance.
According to an article entitled, "Schools Struggle to Find Where Fitness Fits," which was written by Michael Popke, Managing Editor of Athletic Business, and posted on the magazine's website this month, schools are aware of the positive link between better academic performance and fitness. However, they still are dealing with limited budgets that force them to make painful choices between hiring an academic teacher versus a gym teacher. The result is that oftentimes, they focus solely on academics and let the physical education programs lapse. As a consequence, their students' fitness levels suffer.
In his article, Popke presents several examples of schools that are bucking the trend. These schools are realizing that students' fitness needs also have to be nurtured, and instead, are beefing up their physical education programs and options - both on their respective campuses - as well as in the communities in which they live.For those looking for statistics on what percent of today's schools provide physical activity opportunities for their students, Popke cites some alarming numbers that are spiraling downward. They are a far cry from the National Association for Sport and Physical Education and the American Heart Association's recommended weekly minutes for elementary, middle and high school students.
However, as Popke further illustrates in his article, there are several schools out there that "get" the positive academic performance/fitness link and are going above and beyond to make those activities a required part of the school day or beneficial options either before or after school.
Obviously, having these physical education opportunities regularly available during the kids' formative years, can only serve to instill life-long fitness habits for the benefit of all.
