Being active is an important part of living a healthy and balanced life. Two great ways to stay active are by developing fundamental movement skills and participating in sports. These skills can improve our physical health, confidence, teamwork and mental wellbeing.
Developing Fundamental Movement Skills
Fundamental movement skills are the basic movements we use in everyday life and in sport. They include running, jumping, throwing, catching, kicking and balancing. Learning these skills gives us a strong foundation for more advanced physical activities. For example, learning how to throw and catch can help when playing sports such as cricket, basketball or Australian Rules football.
At Esperance Senior High School, the Physical Education department helps students develop these important skills through a range of practical activities and sports. Students have opportunities to practise skills such as running, jumping, throwing, catching and kicking during PE lessons. Teachers provide activities that allow students to improve their coordination, balance, movement and fitness while also learning how to use these skills in different sports and situations.
The Benefits of Participating in Sport
Participating in sports is another important way to stay active. Sports provide regular exercise, which can strengthen muscles and bones, improve heart health and help maintain a healthy body. Being active can also reduce stress and improve our mood. PE lessons and school sporting activities give students opportunities to be active while learning new skills.
Building Skills Beyond the Playing Field
Sport can also teach valuable skills that are useful outside of physical activity. Team sports can develop communication, cooperation, leadership and respect. Individual activities can help students develop self-discipline, determination and goal-setting. Learning how to handle both winning and losing can also help young people become more resilient.
Finding Activities You Enjoy
Most importantly, physical activity should be enjoyable. Not everyone enjoys the same sports, and that is okay. Some students may enjoy football or basketball, while others might prefer swimming, athletics, dancing or fitness activities. The important thing is finding activities that you enjoy and feel confident participating in.
Creating Healthy Habits for Life
Overall, developing fundamental movement skills and participating in sport can benefit both our bodies and minds. Through PE at Esperance Senior High School, students are given opportunities to build these skills, become more confident and develop healthy habits that can last a lifetime.
