1. The importance of the PE in schools
Physical education:
The importance of the PE in schools

2. “Intelligence and skill can only function at the peak of their capacity when the body is healthy and strong” - John F. Kennedy

3. Child Development
Physical activity and play is key to brain development
Contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of youth3
Improves children’s
Emotional control
Motor skills
Dexterity

4. Physical Activity and Brain Development4
Dynamic interaction between cognitive and motor skills
Physical activity affects the brain by increasing
Cerebral capillary growth
Blood flow
Oxygenation
Neurotrophin production
Nerve cell growth
Development and density of neural connections
Brian tissue volume
These physiological changes may be associated with better cognition and positive affect

5. NASPE Position Statement2
National Association for Sport and Physical Education
Physical Education is a crucial component of educating a child
Research shows students improve academics when they are healthy
Both emotionally and physically
Healthy students
Miss fewer classes
Less likely to engage in risky behaviors
Have better concentration
Attain higher test scores

6. PE in Relation to a Healthier Society
One study published in the Journal of School Health3 found
Students who enrolled in physical education adopted other health- related behaviors
Students participating in at least two PE classes a week
45% increase in consumption of fruits
28-30% higher likelihood of lower television viewing reported
Creating a healthier society will have positive impacts on students’ futures

7. Positive Outcomes of Physical Activity
Meta-analysis of 50 unique articles conducted by the CDC4
Physical activity is related to several positive outcomes
Academic achievement
Academic behaviors
Cognitive skills
Concentration
Memory
Verbal skills
Attitudes
Self-esteem

8. Meta-analysis by the CDC4
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services conducted an analysis of 50 unique studies
11 of 14 studies found one or more positive associations between physical education and indicators of
Cognitive skills and attitudes
Academic behavior
And/or academic achievement

9. Meta-analysis by the CDC4: Cont’d
False argument—Detracts from academics
9 studies examined academic performance
When less time was devoted to areas other than physical education
31 outcomes showed no association
No negative associations found

10. Administrators, School Board, Principals
Do not underestimate the importance of physical education
Be confident in supporting physical education programs
Consider increasing students’ time spent in physical education
Do not decrease students’ time spent in physical education
Time spent in physical education may have positive impacts on academics
And will not hinder performance!

11. References
1Ginsburg, K. (2007). The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bonds. Pediatrics, 119(1), doi:
2Heidorn, B. (2011). Physical Education Is Critical to Educating the Whole Child. Retrieved July 29, 2015.
3Tassitano, R., Barros, M., Tenório, M., Bezerra, J., Florindo, A., & Reis, R. (2010). Enrollment in Physical Education Is Associated With Health-Related Behavior Among High School Students. Journal of School Health, 80(3), doi:
4The Association Between School-Based Physical Activity, Including Physical Education, and Academic Performance. (2010). Retrieved July 29, 2015.