Mr. Purdy’s approach to teaching PE was akin to a special forces boot camp. Concerns for physical fitness, wellness or lifelong appreciation for physical activity weren’t on the instructional radar screen in those days, with one exception — on rainy days PE class was held in the gymnasium where we had to play dodge ball with semi-inflated volleyballs. Otherwise PE in 1962 was primarily about learning how to play traditional team sports like football, basketball, volleyball and baseball.
Since the 1960s, decades of research have revealed that PE when taught comprehensively has a profound impact on the cognitive, emotional and social development in children of all ages. University of Naples researcher Laura Mandolesi explains that “physical education induces structural and functional changes in the brain, determining enormous biological and psychological benefits.”
For example, in addition to myriad health benefits, a comprehensive PE program can increase learning, memory, attention, concentration, decision-making, creativity, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing. Physically fit children also perform better academically in virtually every subject, including on standardized tests.
The Centers for Disease Control adds that for adults a lifetime of physical activity greatly reduces the risk of dementia, anxiety and depression. In addition, physically active adults may accumulate a reserve-like neurological advantage which supports an enduring preservation of cognitive function in old age.
PE programs today strive to develop both the mind and the body. Students acquire a wide range of physical skills in addition to a deeper understanding of how regular physical activity and proper nutrition enhance physical, cognitive and emotional health. Perhaps most importantly, modern day PE cultivates a lifelong commitment to good health practices and a wide variety of physical activities.
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