Today I received a couple of emails from national organizations alerting people to the changes related to the Presidential Fitness Test. The unavailing of this change was also revealed during childhood obesity month.
My initial reaction to the change was here is another way that eliminates an opportunity for kids who are athletic to get recognition. I have heard from many parents that the changes to field day don't teach kids life lessons. Sometimes there are winners and losers. Some people may see this change to the test as being very similar. Not everyone is capable of doing well in athletics just like not everyone excels in music or art.
Being a former PE teacher I can see the benefits for switching the test. A lot of high school athletes don't develop lifelong fitness habits. As a result once the are done playing their sport they end up becoming overweight as adults.
In the end I don't think the test that kids take is what makes them healthier. It is the influences they get at home that have the biggest impact. As parents we need to model and promote a healthy lifestyle.
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