Physical education is as important as school work. Every child needs to be active every day to boost their growth and development. Physical training maintains the human body through exercises like jogging, swimming, playing basketball or football, skipping, and so much more. Many schools are now encouraging learners to balance their school work and physical education. Quality physical education programmes are needed to increase the physical competence, health-related fitness, self-responsibility and enjoyment of physical activity for all students so that they can be physically active for a lifetime. However, physical education programmes can only be beneficial if they are well organised. Better physical fitness raises children’s strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, body composition and cardiovascular resolution. It also provides a wide range of developmentally appropriate activities for all children. Through exercise, children learn across the curriculum; it is relaxation after a long day of studying. Physical activity makes a healthy heart, especially through aerobic exercise (aerobic exercise is any type of cardiovascular conditioning. It can include activities like brisk walking, swimming, running, or cycling.) Research shows that kids who engage in aerobic exercise two to three times a week for at least 20 minutes have a healthier heart than those who don’t take part in physical education. Exercise reduces stress as it releases tension and anxiety, and eases emotional stability and resilience. Children can socialise with others positively and also gain opportunities to learn positive skills. Physical education at school helps in preventing obesity and high blood pressure. Physical exercise and activities will help the little ones burn off their extra calories that are due to consuming junk food and a lot of sugar. Kids gain a sense of self-esteem in physical activity. They can become more confident, independent and self-controlled, and learn how to set achievable goals. Kids who take part in physical activity and exercise regularly have a good night’s sleep. When kids sleep comfortably and enough, they can be active and attentive in class, thus performing well. Physical education encourages a healthy and active lifestyle throughout the school body, nurtures sportsmanship in all aspects of struggle, broadens kids’ sporting experience and enjoyment, and generates a passion for active recreation and sport. Being physically active makes the students energetic and strong which motivates them to take interest in classroom activities. Research shows that by exercising and breathing deeply, there is extra air to the lungs which in turn provides more oxygen to the brain; this makes the brain feel relaxed and stress-free. Kids often feel proud and happy about themselves and are good towards their fellow students. It is important to understand that in order for a child to become more involved in physical activity, it is necessary to modify, reduce or remove other less important activities like watching television. In order for kids to get a healthy amount of physical activity daily, help them schedule regular times for free active play, set up an active play area indoors, include active games, encourage them, emphasise cooperation, join the kids in different physical activities and be a role model. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
