Physical fitness leads to mental fitness, which is part of the reason that Physical Education teachers are well suited for careers in special education. Physical fitness leads to better performance on standardized tests, boosts self-esteem, provides energy for life’s activities, reduces stress and anxiety, leads to more restful sleep, increases focus in the classroom and decreases disciplinary actions. Physical fitness is important in both Physical Education class and in daily home lives.
Endorphins
There are certain chemical interactions that occur in our bodies when we exercise. These chemicals known as endorphins work at reducing stress and improving moods. Physical fatigue can often lead to mental anxiety, which is why Physical Education teachers teach students calming techniques while exercising. Physical fitness leads to more relaxation and better moods.
Endorphins are produced by the human body in response to brain chemicals known as opioids. Physical activity increases opioid activity in the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and adrenal gland which prepares the body for physical activity by creating positive hormones that flush the body of stress and fatigue. Physical fitness leads to mental relaxation.
Clarity
Often times students complain about feeling sluggish, sleepy or unfocused during Physical Education class. With their minds hazy, emotions running high and lack of energy, educational school work may be difficult. Physical activity provides oxygenated blood flow throughout our entire body, including our brains. Physical fitness leads to clear minds and better concentration for learning tasks.
Anxiety Reduction
Physical fitness leads to reduction in stress, anxiety and even depression. A study was done on Physical Education students ages 8-12 years old. The students were given a battery of tests both before Physical Education classes began and after Physical Education class ended at the end of an academic year. When compared with children who did not have Physical Education during the school year, Physical Education students showed signs of decreased anxiety and stress. Physical fitness leads to reduced mental stress.
Stress Reduction
Endorphins work at reducing physical fatigue, but they also work on relieving mental fatigue. Physical activity can actually help us relax. Working out on a regular basis boosts endorphins which help us relax and reduce stress. Physical fitness leads to mental stress reduction.
Better Sleep
Physical fitness, combined with good nutrition usually results in better sleep patterns. Physical activity can change our body chemistry so that it is easier for some people to fall asleep at night. Physical fitness helps you get the most out of your sleep. Physical fitness leads to better mental health.
Physical activity can increase the quality of sleep which boosts our immune system, memory and cognitive thinking skills. Physical fitness can improve our moods because it also improves quality of sleep by decreasing how often we wake up at night or toss and turn due to discomfort or feeling hot.
Self-Esteem Boost
Physical activity brings about the positive energy we need to succeed in life and Physical Education classes can be a place where students find that boost of self-esteem they need as well as encouragement from their Physical Education teacher. Physical fitness boosts self-esteem just as much as it boosts test scores. Physical fitness leads to more mental self-esteem.
Walking Exercise at Home
When Physical Education class is not an option, Physical Fitness can be practiced at home as well. Walking is a simple and easy way to increase your Physical Fitness and clear your mind. You can watch online videos of “Walks Of Life” to see how you can walk 1 mile at home. It’s like video exercise routine for you.
Talk to your loved ones
A study was done on Physical Education students ages 8-12 years old. The students were given a battery of tests both before Physical Education classes began and after Physical Education class ended at the end of an academic year. Physical education students showed signs of increased positive communication between themselves and their parents. Physical fitness leads to more secure relationships with family members.
Physical fitness leads to mental health. Physical activity provides oxygenated blood flow throughout our entire body, including our brains. Physical fitness leads to clear minds and better concentration for learning tasks. Physical fitness is a necessary component in leading a healthy life with strong physical and mental benefits.
Physical Education class should be one of the most important classes at school because it can help students feel better about themselves and it can also increase academic success. Physical fitness leads to mental fitness in Physical Education class.
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