As students weave through their college career, completing general education coursework and upper-division major requirements, they may have the choice to take electives to work toward their hour total.
While physical education courses are only required for education majors, they are offered to all students from any college or major. Students shouldn’t disregard these courses when designing their course schedules, but instead utilize them for their well-being.
According to a report from the CDC, despite the fact that increasing physical activity positively impacts health by increasing longevity and improving quality of life, most college-age students fail to meet physical activity guidelines. That’s why students should carve out time in their already busy schedules to exercise through courses like physical education.
“The grade is pretty much 100% attendance,” said government senior Beck Woodruff, who is currently taking two PE credits this semester. “(Intro to golf) is a fun class, you get to hit golf balls in the gym or at a golf course. … and then weight training, I’ve also been doing it (for) a long time. … It’s also very beginner-focused, but it’s just an easy grade and it’s fun.”
UT offers a myriad of courses in all different fields of sport, from entry-level to advanced. Whether you want to try fencing for the first time or are an advanced swimmer, there are classes for you. Even if you are just looking for strength and conditioning courses, UT has different ones available to fit your needs.
“I think that the PE courses are a great option for students to get physical activity into their schedule, because it gives them some accountability,” said Courtney Hill, assistant professor of practice in the department of kinesiology and health education, who teaches different levels of swimming classes. “A bulk of my class is graded on attendance and participation. So if the students are coming to class and participating, it should be a pretty easy grade for them.”
Movement is essential for your body’s health, especially in preventing diabetes, arthritis and high blood pressure. Not only does activity help your physical body, but it also helps your mind. Exercise is one of the greatest ways to release endorphins and feel-good chemicals, which can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
“I think you have an opportunity to learn how to manage stress that comes along with being in school and all of the different work that you have to do and learning skills to be able to put into practice to help you relieve that stress,” Hill said. “I think it is good, because life is stressful, and work after school is stressful, and it’s important to take care of yourself.”
On the other hand, physical education courses only carry one credit hour, which might dissuade some students from taking these classes; however, getting any credit for trying a new physical activity and grading on participation provides students with the support to explore things they have always wanted to try. Since these classes are primarily participation based, they can help boost your gpa.
All students should find time to exercise throughout their week, which is already carved out in their schedules with a PE elective, helping students stick to a routine. The next time students begin filling out their course load, they should look toward PE credits while deciding on which classes to take.
Petry is a government and journalism junior from Rowlett, Texas.
