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Studies do suggest that the quantity and especially the quality of school physical education programs have a big effect on the fitness of children and adolescents. Increasing children's participation in moderate to vigorous activities improves their health. Whether or not physical activity and exercise improves academic performance is still a hot topic for debate.
A recent study from Michigan State University looked at academic grades of middle school students who were in a physical education (PE) class. They compared these results to students who were not in PE. They also compared the grades of students in PE with those students who took PE and who were also on a sports team.
The findings suggested that regular PE class does not impact school grades. Although the physical activity may have health benefits, it's not vigorous enough to improve academic performance. Only students with vigorous levels of activity showed improved grades.
Vigorous physical activity was defined as rhythmic, repetitive physical activities that use large muscle groups at 70 percent or more of maximum heart rate for age. This definition has been proposed by the Healthy People 2010 program.
An exercise heart rate of 70 percent of maximum heart rate for age is enough to increase conditioning of the heart and lungs. Examples of vigorous physical activities include jogging/running, lap swimming, cycling, aerobic dancing, skating, rowing, jumping rope, cross-country skiing, hiking/backpacking, and racquet sports. Competitive group sports such as soccer, baseball, volleyball, and basketball also provide vigorous levels of activity.
For more information on guidelines recommended by Healthy People 2010 go to http://www.healthypeople.gov.
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