"Should Schools Teach More About the Benefits of Physical Activity?"
- Fysiobasen
- Nov 27
- 4 min read
Physical activity is well known for its powerful benefits — not only for the body but also for the mind.It plays a crucial role in promoting lifelong health and well-being.
Yet, in most schools, subjects like math, science, and language often take priority over health and movement education.But shouldn’t students learn more about the concrete benefits of physical activity as part of their curriculum?
This article explores why schools should place greater emphasis on teaching the health and psychological benefits of exercise — and how doing so could help shape healthier, more active generations.
Physical Activity and Health — More Than Just Exercise
Physical activity is far more than a way to “stay in shape.”It’s essential for children’s physical, mental, and social development, with long-term benefits that extend far beyond fitness.
Understanding what happens in the body and mind during movement highlights why physical activity should be a core topic in every school’s health education.
1. Better Physical Health
Regular physical activity helps children build strong muscles and bones, improve cardiovascular health, and maintain a healthy weight.It also plays a key role in preventing lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions.
How does it affect physical health?
Exercise enhances blood circulation, boosts the immune system, and increases energy levels — helping children stay resilient, focused, and less prone to illness.
2. Mental Health and Cognitive Function
Exercise has a well-documented positive impact on mental health and brain function.It triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s “feel-good” hormones, which improve mood and reduce stress.
How does it affect the brain?
Physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve sleep quality, and enhance the brain’s ability to learn and retain new information.
Children who move regularly tend to perform better academically, demonstrating sharper attention and memory.
3. Social Interaction and Teamwork
Physical activity also promotes social skills.Through group games, sports, and outdoor activities, children learn cooperation, empathy, and teamwork.
How does it influence social development?
Movement-based activities help children build friendships and practice fair play, communication, and problem-solving — vital life skills that extend beyond the classroom.
Why Schools Should Teach the Benefits of Exercise
Although physical education is part of most school systems, the understanding of why exercise matters is often overlooked.Teaching children how and why movement impacts their health can help them form lasting, positive habits.
1. Increased Motivation for Physical Activity
When children learn about the long-term benefits of physical activity — such as improved health, energy, and academic performance — they’re more likely to stay active throughout life.
How can schools motivate students?
By incorporating short lessons on the science of exercise, showing how it supports focus, mood, and overall well-being.Understanding the “why” behind activity can turn exercise from an obligation into a natural, enjoyable part of daily life.
2. Prevention of Lifestyle Diseases
Conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease often begin with sedentary habits.Educating children early about how physical activity protects against these conditions can make a long-term difference in public health.
How can this be taught effectively?
Schools can include simple, practical explanations of how the body benefits from regular movement — supported by classroom discussions and real-life examples.
3. Improved Academic Performance
Research consistently shows a strong link between physical activity and academic success.Children who move regularly tend to focus better, remember more, and perform higher on cognitive tasks.
How to integrate activity into learning?
Short “movement breaks” between lessons or active learning strategies can improve concentration and classroom engagement.
How Can Schools Integrate More Exercise Education?
1. Include More Health-Focused Learning
Schools can dedicate time to teaching students about the importance of physical activity and its connection to physical and mental health.This can be embedded in both physical education and science or health classes.
Example:
Short, age-appropriate lessons explaining how exercise affects muscles, the heart, and mood — helping children connect theory with practice.
2. Strengthen Physical Education
PE classes should receive more time and variety.Offering diverse activities — from sports and dance to outdoor play and yoga — allows every student to find something enjoyable.
How can this help?
When movement is fun and accessible, children are more likely to stay active outside of school and develop lifelong habits of physical activity.
Summary
Physical activity is essential for the health and development of children, yet its broader benefits are often underemphasized in schools.By teaching students about the scientific, emotional, and social advantages of exercise, schools can empower them to make healthier choices throughout life.
Integrating physical activity education into the curriculum not only promotes health but also enhances learning, cooperation, and emotional well-being — preparing students for a more active and balanced future.
Sources
Janssen I, et al. Physical activity and health in children and adolescents. J Phys Act Health. 2007;4(1):33–42.
Donnelly JE, et al. Physical activity and academic performance. J Sch Health. 2016;86(9):743–758.
Biddle SJ, et al. The role of physical activity in improving mental health in children and adolescents. J Phys Act Health. 2010;7(1):23–33.
Tremblay MS, et al. The role of physical activity in the prevention of obesity. Am J Clin Nutr. 2006;83(6):1161–1167.
World Health Organization (WHO). Physical activity and health. 2018.
