Introduction
It can be assumed that every student and parent has ever wondered about the importance and necessity of sports in high school. There are several reasons why students are encouraged to attend physical activity classes, even in high school. Thus, while some people refer to enhanced academic performance as the key reason, it is more likely that high school sports are needed to improve students’ mental and physical health.
Discussion
First, evidence is needed to prove the benefits of PE classes to adolescents’ mental conditions. According to the PCSFN Science Board (2020), “73 percent of parents believe that sports benefit their child’s mental health,” and this is correct (p. 1). High school students engaged in sports activities are less likely to have depression, anxiety, stress, suicidal behaviors, and other conditions (Newport Academy, 2021). On the contrary, their self-esteem and self-perception improve, and general mental health is enhanced.
Second, there are many benefits to high school students’ physical health. Thus, as indicated by the PCSFN Science Board (2020), PE classes make adolescents more fit and healthy. Among other benefits, their bone and weight conditions improve, cardiovascular and muscular fitness becomes better, and the general quality of life associated with wellness is also reported to be enhanced (PCSFN Science Board, 2020). Therefore, this may be considered the key reason why sports are needed in high school.
At the same time, some parents consider social interactions to be the primary cause of PE classes being included in the high school schedule. Cardwell (2021) notices that socialization is indeed a significant effect of sports activities, and students engage in them mostly to communicate with others. While sports truly help students develop social skills, the latter can be gained during after-school time. However, only some students are interested in paying attention to their health, which is why the improvement of mental and physical state is the key reason why sports are needed in high school.
Conclusion
To draw a conclusion, one may say that there are many reasons for adolescents to attend PE classes even when they become seniors. Engaging in sports allows children to develop strong social interactions, which is one of the additional benefits. However, the primary value of high school sports is that they lead to improved mental and physical health. Unlike the former effect, the latter is rarely considered by students in their free time.
References
Cardwell, R. (2021). How high school sports can make a big impact on students. WTVR-TV. Web.
Newport Academy. (2021). Teen sports and mental health: 10 mental benefits of sports. Web.
PCSFN Science Board. (2020). Benefits of youth sports [PDF document]. Web.