Students who participate in physical education tend to earn better grades and score higher on standardized tests, according to a report produced by Active Living Research, based out of San Diego State University. The report outlined a meta-analysis of studies conducted over 40 years and discovered that most found a correlation between exercise and superior academic performance. Students who exercise tend to behave better and concentrate more easily in class, which the report hypothesized contributed to improved grades.
Exercise helps students have healthy bodies and maintain an appropriate weight. Physical activity promotes muscle strength and flexibility. Weight-bearing exercises, such as running, are important for building strong bones in children. Exercise benefits a student's cardiovascular system and blood pressure levels. Students who learn healthy habits from taking physical education classes in school are more likely to continue those habits into adulthood. Continued exercise helps prevent disease and premature death. Movement also helps children develop motor skills and spatial awareness.
Gym class helps students manage stress while boosting their mood. Children who participate in physical education may enjoy increased self-esteem as a result of excelling in sports. Developing their talents and earning recognition from the teacher and fellow students may contribute to an individual's sense of self. Students who are not naturally athletic may still enjoy the mental benefits of physical education as they learn to push their limits. Students learn how to solve problems by playing sports. They may also build character as they set goals and seek improvement in gym class activities.
Students must work with others during physical education classes, which improves their social skills. Gym teachers often split students into teams to play sports such as volleyball and baseball. While playing on a team, students learn how to alternate between acting as a leader and support to others. They also learn conflict management. Students learn how to win and lose graciously, treating their peers with respect without regard to outcomes. The social nature of physical education also encourages different groups of friends to mix.