Physical education plays a major role in educating the students as whole persons.  It is the only subject at school that provides students with opportunities to learn motor skills, develop fitness, and gain understanding about the importance of physical activity.  Apart from the physical domain used when performing exercise, physical education involves the cognitive domain to solve problems or situations and the social domain to communicate effectively with teammates.  Students learn to work collaboratively in teams aiding them to develop leadership and group skills, whilst also increasing mental health and self-esteem.   

Physical activity improves the general health and well-being of a person.  It reduces stress, strengthens the heart and lungs, increases energy levels, helps to maintain and achieve a healthy body weight and improves our way of life.  Regular physical activity for children is essential for healthy growth and development, whilst for adults it allows daily tasks to be accomplished with greater ease and comfort.

Combining physical activity with a healthy eating diet can further help to reduce the risk of certain diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and certain types of cancers.  Daily physical activity also helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.  It also reduces obesity, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and symptoms of arthritis.  All in all, the main goal of physical education will always be participation in health-enhancing physical activity for a lifetime.

Mr. Peter Paul Camilleri

P.E. Teacher Seminary Gozo