Strengthening Minds and Bodies: The Crucial Role of Physical Education in Holistic Learning

When considering the words of Chinese Philosopher, Lao Tzu- ‘health is the greatest possession’, the upkeep of our health takes a frontal stage. This very principle, thereon, prioritizes the value of physical education in our educational system. In this regard, it becomes important to have a structured pedagogy of physical education rather than administering it randomly. Here are a few elements that one needs to consider while drafting a Physical education curriculum: 

Physical fitness of the student

Upkeeping one’s physical fitness is a key component of ensuring a healthy lifestyle. This is why Physical education is introduced as a key subject in the curricula of leading universities over the world. It has been cognized through research that inculcating fitness activities in one’s timetable, help not only improve cardiovascular health but also develop muscle strength. This, in turn, also effectuates healthy lifestyle habits. 

Health and nutrition

Nutrition is one of the primary elements of Physical education. This helps students to understand the importance of healthy dietary habits. This is particularly important in high school as this is where eating disorders and obesity start culminating. The Physical education curriculum aims to eliminate precisely these problems. 

Physical activity and well-being 

Well-being improves students’ academic performance, behavior, social integration, and satisfaction. Wellbeing improves teachers’ ability to interact with students, teach concepts, face challenges, and avoid burnout.

Social well-being of students

Physical education classes are not restricted to merely exercises, it also ensures to upkeep the social well-being of the students. This is to say that the physical education curriculum makes sure that students have a healthy relationships with their family, peers, and teachers. This is attained through team games, friendly matches, and multiple other activities. 

The emotional well-being of students

Yet another factor that finds a place in the Physical education curriculum is emotional wellbeing. This aspect helps students in knowing themselves and enables them to face the problems that life throws at them. This element focuses on multiple concepts like a cognitive appraisal, action, physiological change, and neurobiological explanation. 

Benefits of introducing Physical education curriculum

Some of the benefits of introducing structured Physical education modules in the curriculum are: 

• Enhances the learning aptitude of the students 
• Improves cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, mobility, and body consumption. 
• Helps in improving power, agility, reaction, time, balance, speed, and coordination by use of all senses. 
• Develops interpersonal skills of the students like teamwork, leadership, communication, etc. 
• Helps students combat mental health issues like stress and anxiety. It also helps build resilience and emotional stability. 
• Helps instill a sense of confidence and helps students attain a sense of individuality. 

Ms. Manasa Pathi

Badminton Coach

Oakridge International School, Gachibowli