PE in Society

Impacts on General Health and Physical Fitness The Health Survey for England 2009 report shows that around 31% of boys and 28% girls aged 2 to 15 were classed as either overweight or obese-P.E. could help address this. Improvements in physical fitness including; aerobic endurance, muscular endurance, strength & power Improves posture Assists the natural pattern of growth Developing motor skills & co-ordination Strengthens the musculoskeletal system Lowers blood pressure

Emotional Stability Improvements in concentration, manual dexterity and determination Provides a healthy outlet for emotions Increase motivation & confidence It has been claimed that ‘physical activity improves psychological health in young people’ (Sallis and Owen) sports participation improves self-esteem and self-perception Helps reduce stress, anxiety and depression Empowerment & realisation of physical potential

Social Cohesion Mix in groups you wouldn’t normally Creates sense of community & belonging co-operation, teamwork, empathy Develop communication skills

Crime Reduction Instills discipline & morals Reinforces concept of sticking to the rules. By experiencing a sense of responsibility & expectation, athletes are less likely to fall into the “wrong crowd” Sport is more likely to benefit if teachers, leaders or coaches are respectful, fair and honest Can recapture disengaged students Reduces engagement in anti-social or criminal behaviour One study showed that sport participation caused the following; 50% 50% decrease in drug use 76% 76% drop in anti-social behaviour 68% 68% fall in crime (Home Office, 2006)

Impacts on Economy Reductions in crime reduce cost of policing & justice system. Health benefits reduce the cost of healthcare on the NHS Better general health & fitness reduces sick days off work & school.

Other Benefits Instills discipline Improves skills such as: attendance punctuality consistency reliability Can benefit academic studies by increasing attention & alertness Develops ability to take on board constructive criticism Character building