We all know that regular physical activity is something everyone should be doing but only 23% of adults in the United States meet the recommended aerobic-activity and muscle-strengthening guidelines. As parents, we are the ones who set the example and should be modeling positive behaviors to our children. If children do not see their parents engaged in regular physical activity they will be less likely to develop positive exercise habits.
I have talked to many parents and almost every parent wants their children to be physically active. I don’t think I have ever met a parent who did not want their child to be physically active.
All physical activity programs should incorporate some type of physical education.
- Physical Education helps improve motor coordination
Physical Education helps improve motor coordination and enhances the development of various motor performance skills. Being able to move in different ways and in different environments helps us in all areas of life. Whether children are playing sports, learning a musical instrument, involved in dance, or just playing for fun, movements must be coordinated. Patterns must be learned, and strengthened through repetition and practice in order for mastery to occur. Physical Education introduces a wide range of movement patterns that create a foundation for both gross and fine motor skill development.
- Physical Education helps build and maintain strong, healthy muscles, bones and joints.
Physical Education teaches muscle-strengthening activities. Movements like push-ups, squats, and burpees help to build and maintain muscular strength. These exercises also improve the strength of bones and joints. Learning and regularly practicing muscle-strengthening exercises decreases the risk of bone and joint injuries. Building strong bones in childhood reduces the risk of developing osteoporosis later in life. Research tells us that 8 out of 10 adults currently suffer from some type of back pain. Maintaining strong muscles, bones, and joints can reduce the risk of developing back pain in adulthood.
- Physical Education helps children enhance academic performance
Research shows that exercise promotes improved school attendance and enhances academic performance. Children who participate in regular physical education get sick less often, are better behaved, are more motivated to learn, and have improved attention. As little as 5 minutes of cardiovascular activity can stimulate increased blood flow to the brain and spur the growth of new brain cells.
- Physical Education reduces anxiety and depression
Children who are physically active report fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression and a better overall mood. Exercise increases the release of the neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. A bout of exercise is like taking a little bit of Ritalin and a little bit of Prozac without any of the potential harmful effects of these drugs.
Overall physical education brings tremendous benefits to your child, and should be something that is incorporated into every school day. At Family Time Fitness we have created hundreds of easy to follow physical education lessons. All our lessons can be done at home with one or more children. Visit our website to see how we can help you incorporate physical education into your daily routine.
