The Importance of Physical Education at School Argumentative Essay

For over 8 hours a day, 5 times a week, pupils are required to sit during classes in uncomfortable, wooden chairs. Not only do they little exercise at school, the overwhelming amount of homework results in children sitting at home instead of playing outside. It is estimated that 80% of children and teenagers worldwide lack regular and sufficient physical activity (WHO 2020). Therefore, it is important for the education system to include physical education in the school programme. To the author`s mind, mandatory physical education in schools is necessary for children to maintain both physical and mental health. 

Firstly, specialists admit that a child needs physical activity for his/her body to function and develop properly. According to the World Health Organisation website, sport improves muscle and bone growth, regulates blood pressure, levels of glucose, and insulin. Moreover, children who do not exercise regularly are prone to diseases, such as obesity, ergo it is crucial for schools to provide weekly mandatory physical education for every student. 

Secondly, the lack of movement has a detrimental effect on mental health. For instance, hence by exercising one relieves stress and decreases the possibility of depression, not exercising results in an increase of stress and may lead to depression. Furthermore, regular physical activity improves learning performance (WHO 2020). Consequently, children who are not physically active cannot focus well during classes.  

On the other hand, PE may be stressful for physically inactive pupils. They might be afraid of body shaming or their poor performance during team games. As a result, such students may try to avoid the classes, for example, by simulating illnesses.  

In conclusion, children need physical education to increase their physical activity. Despite its unpopularity among inactive pupils, PE has beneficial effects on both physical and mental health. By reason of its impact on proper child development, I firmly believe that schools should provide students with physical education.