Physical education classes promote exercise for students and offer the chance to engage in athletic activities during school hours. Basic fundamentals of common sports are taught in class, so students can gain knowledge of how they are played, using sportsmanship and teamwork. A student is often required to change out of his school clothes into uniform or other appropriate attire for class.
P.E. uniforms typically consist of athletic shorts, a t-shirt and gym shoes. Some schools might require specific colors for P.E. uniforms, much like normal school uniforms, to create an environment where everyone is equal and dressed in the same fashion. Schools might offer extra clothes or shoes to students that do not come prepared for class. Not being prepared is likely to be a cause for disciplinary action by the teacher.
P.E. uniforms are meant to be comfortable clothing in which students can exercise. Regular school clothes that consist of jeans, skirts or dress shoes do not allow the range of motion necessary to complete athletic activities comfortably or safely. Wearing uniforms also keeps regular school clothes from getting sweat soaked or dirty during physical education class.
Clothes that are acceptable to be used as P.E. uniforms are available at most retail clothing outlets. Stores that cater to athletes might offer a more broad selection of options. Schools that require specific shirts or color schemes sometimes allow you to order P.E. uniforms directly from the school, or direct you to locations where clothes can be obtained.