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I. Main idea/topic
A. Subtopic 1 1. Support 2. Support 3. Support B. Transition, Subtopic 2 1. Support 2. Support 3. Support C. Transition, Subtopic 3 1. Support 2. Support 3. Support D. Conclusion | I. School P.E. important
A. Studies 1. Link to health 2. Recommendations 3. Changes B. Lack of exercise 1. Adult statistics 2. Exercise programs 3. Young people C. Reasons to teach in school 1. Reach everyone 2. Decline in adolescence 3. Effective D. Conclusion |
Considering the strong relationship between physical activity and health, and the general lack of exercise among Americans, it is important that physical education be taught in our schools. There have been many studies linking physical activity to good health. By the 1970s, there was definite scientific evidence demonstrating the importance of physical exercise in helping to prevent coronary heart disease, hypertension, colon cancer, and diabetes. Based on this evidence, the American Heart Association and the American College of Sports Medicine released recommendations of twenty minutes of sustained physical activity at least three times per week, but many in our society don't realize this. Recent studies indicate that similar benefits can also be achieved by multiple shorter periods of strenuous exercise, and this information can be made publicly known through school P.E. classes. Regardless of the prevalence of statistics showing the importance of physical activity, most Americans don't get enough exercise. More than sixty percent of adults do not exercise regularly, and twenty-five percent get no exercise at all. Evidence shows that those who do begin exercise programs usually don't continue them. When studying young people, nearly half of those ages twelve to twenty-one are not vigorously active, so school physical education programs are important to establish good habits among young people. When considering educating Americans about the importance of being physically acitve, there are several reasons why teaching physical education in schools is recommended. Schools are the most effective place to reach all young people, since school attendance is required. Also, since studies show levels of activity sharply decline during adolescence, continued physical education traininbg during those years is essential. Additionally, evidence shows that such training in schools is effective. The school system in the United States can play a very important part in the education of the general public about the health benefits of being physically active.