Sports in schools have been around for a very long time with students of all ages participating and enjoying the broad range of activities provided each year. When many of us think of sports in schools, we refer to our PE lessons. As a child, it can be difficult to understand the necessities of sports. However, aside from the obvious reasons of sports being mandatory to keep students fit and healthy, there are also many other reasons that schools want their students to participate in sports. From mental, social and emotional wellbeing of students, here is some advice from an independent school in Kingston upon Thames on the benefits of sports in schools.

Sports help students to stay physically fit. Schools offer PE as part of the curriculum as well as extracurricular activities outside of school hours for those who would like to strengthen their skills and further take part. Activities include football, hockey, netball, tennis, rounders and rugby. Students in school are prone to stress which leads them to eating unhealthily which can lead to unwanted illnesses. Regular physical exercise means students will have the opportunity to lose weight and enhance their overall wellbeing.

Mental and emotional wellbeing is also improved by taking part in sports. Anxiety, stress and depression are improved through taking part in sports. Studying also requires high levels of perseverance and focus. Sports teaches these skills in easy ways and shows young students the value of hard work and the sweetness of succeeding.

It helps to build social skills. This is one of the most important aspects of sports as it teaches vital skills for students. Sports demonstrate levels of discipline, sacrifice, nurture and help form natural leaders which is a necessity for the future. Team sports also help to show the value of true friendship and how to respect others which is one of the best qualities to gain for future.

Wendy K. Wilson