We live in a time where industrialization and technological innovation has greatly reduced physical labor. We no longer need to use the stairs at many places, no longer need to walk much or even go outside to play for entertainment. The younger generations are getting less and less physical activity which apart from causing a range of medical problems that come with a sedentary lifestyle, may also rob them of many mental benefits, success in career and life and an opportunity to live their life to the fullest.
With the rise in technology today, most of the learning happens in the online mode. Especially since the coronavirus pandemic, when schools and college campuses were shut down, locking millions of students and educators across the entire nation out of the classroom, eLearning has become the most popular mode of education. Educational institutions have adopted various tools and software such as school ERP, smart classes, attendance management system and likewise to digitize learning and management. The point is, that students get even less physical activity when most of their learning happens remotely. However, physical activity is vital for students as apart from providing several health benefits it also helps them in being more concentrated in school. Here are some important benefits of physical activity for students and why educators should encourage them to get at least some physical activity each day. So, without further ado, let’s dive in…
More Focused in Class-
Exercise not only activates the body; it activates the mind as well. Exercise helps in balancing the hormone levels of the body which gives us a better poise and mental strength. Exercise can help in improving the concentration and memory of the students and helping them become more focused in the class. It also helps in increasing the level of information retention and recall in the students. Therefore, regular physical activity may help the students in enhancing their academic performance by becoming more mentally agile.
Low Absenteeism-
Student absenteeism is a problem in every class. Many students fall ill regularly or especially during a particular season. Among other benefits, exercise may help in reducing student absenteeism by simply making them healthier. Research indicates that exercise helps in improving our immunity which means we fall ill a lot less due to a strengthened and active immune system. Therefore, educators and parents should encourage the students to get regular exercise.
Better Sleep-
Exercise helps the students in getting better quality sleep which helps them in keeping themselves physically and mentally healthy. A sound and deeper sleep improves the mind’s ability to focus better, helps in improving our energy levels and also mitigates stress and helps the students in managing anxiety due to academics.
Increased Self-Confidence-
Teenage is a time when many individuals might suffer from self-esteem and confidence issues. It is not always easy finding a way to connect with and help teenagers develop self-confidence and self-worth. Exercise may help students develop their self-confidence and self-esteem both by making their body more physically fit and providing a sense of accomplishment and happiness. Improving self-confidence through exercise can motivate the students to learn new things, increase their knowledge and take risks.
Academic Success-
Students’ academic success more often than not depends upon their attitude and approach towards learning rather than their intelligence. Exercise helps in developing confidence in the students and also elevates their mood due to hormonal changes. This helps the students develop a positive approach towards life and all its aspects including their academics. Several studies have shown that the students who keep themselves physically active and exercise regularly do in fact, perform better at standardized tests and get better grades.
Keeps The Body Fit and Strong-
Exercise helps students in building a fit and strong body which provides a foundation for everything they hope to achieve in their lives. Moreover, exercising and keeping physically fit when they are young also significantly reduces their risk of developing obesity, high blood pressure, heart ailments and other health problems later in life. Therefore, physical activity helps in keeping the body fit and strong.
Educators should definitely motivate their students to devote some time everyday towards exercising and keeping themselves physically fit and healthy which will help them in achieving academic success and living their life to the fullest.
