The Real Reason Gym Class Is Terrible

P.E. became a standard requirement after the Civil War due to the recognition that not enough individuals were fit for combat. Since then, it has remained a standard part of the school experience, with a current focus on addressing childhood obesity rates by providing physical activity.

The Texas Fitness Now program, a $37 million initiative, found that mandatory gym class was counterproductive. It had a negligible impact on fitness and academic achievement and correlated with increased truancy and misbehavior, potentially due to bullying in unsupervised locker rooms. A 7% increase in student disruption was observed. Puberty and body image issues also contribute to negative feelings about gym class, causing shame and self-consciousness among middle schoolers.

While gym class can be beneficial when done well, there is a need to rethink the program's design. An ideal P.E. program would include a mix of recess-type activities, hiking, and yoga to create organic opportunities for physical activity. Teachers also play a crucial role in ensuring a supportive environment, preventing bullying, and making sure students enjoy themselves by asking them for their preferences.