The Role of Physical Education in Advancing Community Health Goals

Given the extensive body of research linking physical education to improved fitness, healthier body composition, enhanced mental health, and long-term protection against anxiety and depression, it is hard to disagree that physical education could be one of the the most effective, yet persistently undervalued, strategies for addressing childhood health and wellness challenges with a community. Physical Education classes provide structured opportunities to engage children within a community on a consistent basis. In addition, physical education and community health share a common purpose: to ensure that children grow up happy, healthy, and fit. This article explores how physical education can help community health programs by improving health outcomes, disease prevention, and access to health care; aiding in overcoming community health disparities; and building healthy communities. By teaming up with each other, physical education and community health would be more likely to achieve their common goals.