This article won an honorable mention in the 2023 Michigan Interscholastic Press Association spring awards ceremony.
This article is a part of an opinion pro-con. Click here to read the “con” side of the topic.
Physical education (PE) has been mandatory to graduate high school in Michigan for about eight years now, stirring up controversy. Some see it as enjoyable and beneficial, while others see it as unnecessary.
As a student who enjoys PE, I believe that gym classes should be mandatory to graduate high school.
The benefits of PE classes are endless. First of all, the class is an easy, participation-based class. So even if students struggle to do the activity assigned for the day, as long as they try and participate, they earn an A.
There are 2 types of PE classes at the high school, such as Introduction to personal Fitness, and Educational Leadership. This gives students a variety of physical education to choose from so that they aren’t limited to just weight-lifting classes.
Another convenience is that it keeps students healthy by making them stay physically active. According to the Center of Disease Control, staying physically active pays multiple dividends to students.
“Regular physical activity can help children and adolescents improve cardiorespiratory fitness, reduce anxiety and depression, and build strong bones and muscles,” the CDC said.
PE classes do not just provide physical benefits; they can provide mental benefits as well, such as the reduction of anxiety and stress, which can lead to a decrease in symptoms of depression. Sophomore swimmer Alexis VanZweden sees the mental upside to PE.
“It’s good for our health because it keeps our mind healthy,” VanZweden said. “I feel less stressed as well and it makes me feel like I can do school.”
Having friends in gym class allows for a more carefree way to spend time with them in school. Senior and varsity baseball player Kyle Michalski agrees with the sentiment.
“It helps you to stay fit or get in shape,” Michalski said. “You’re in there with friends and can make new friendships.”
I believe PE classes should be mandatory to graduate, because not only do they provide better fitness and education, but they provide social opportunities. PE is a class that can be taken for one semester and is beneficial to students’ health and social lives. PE also provides opportunities for students to learn how to make and follow an active lifestyle.
