Physical education exposes students to lifetime activities and teaches students how to integrate exercise into their lives.
The increased blood flowing to the brain during aerobic exercise stimulates brain activity. Source: Hillman CH, Erickson KI, Kramer AF, "Be smart, exercise your heart: Exercise effects on brain and cognition," Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 2008.
Researchers have found that students who receive physical activity during the school day pay better attention in class. Sibley BA, Etnier JL. The relationship between physical activity and cognition in children: a meta-analysis. Pediat Ex Sci 2003; 15: 243-256.
A high quality physical education program enhances the physical, mental and social/emotional development of every child and helps them understand, improve and maintain physical well-being into adulthood. Learning for Life: Physical Education in Public Schools, American Heart Association Fact Sheet 2008
Benefits extend beyond improvement in health status, studies suggest that children who are more physically fit perform better on Math and Reading test scores. Active Living Research, A National Program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Active Education: Physical Education, Physical Activity and Academic Performance. Research Brief, Fall 2007.
For the first time in history, children's life spans are predicted to be less than their parents because of the obesity epidemic. We are committed to changing that. Your help and support are critical to keep kids moving, eating healthy and having your students get enough rest.
Additional educational resources for a healthy and active family:
http://www.americanheart.org/healthierkids
http://www.healthychoices.org/
http://www.kidsnutrition.org/
http://www.kidshealth.org/
http://www.bam.gov/
http://www.healthyfridge.org/
