What I learned this week: PETE

Kamora Johnson

McKay Student Ambassador

Physical Education

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This semester I am in high school practicum, and this week has been one of my favorites so far. We spent time discussing the true purpose of high school PE and then toured the Orem Recreation Center, which helped me connect what we are learning in class to real-world application.

In class, we read and discussed the article High School Physical Education and Its Effects on Fitness Center Participation After Graduation: A Case Study by Dr. Barney. The article is about whether high school PE truly prepares students to be successful in fitness centers or gyms after they graduate. After reading this, I realized that high school PE is often the last structured physical activity class many students will ever take. That's why it is so important for PE teachers to do more than just play games and sports, but also help students build their fitness literacy.

“Physical literacy is the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge, and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life.” Teaching Fitness literacy involves showing students how to use fitness equipment, how to design a workout plan that fits their goals, and teaching multiple types of physical activity. It can still be scary for a student to walk into a fitness center or gym for the first time, but hopefully, they will also feel confident and know what to do.

Going to the Orem Recreation Center was a good opportunity because I got to see how much Utah is investing in health and fitness. The rec center has rows of cardio machines, free weights, resistance machines, basketball courts, racquetball and pickleball courts, and a climbing wall. There are also group fitness studios, an indoor track, and a 50-meter pool. There was even a slide we got to go down in the weight room, which was probably my favorite part. While I was at the rec center, I realized that there is something for everyone to do, no matter what type of activity they like.

As a future teacher, I want my students to see exercise as something enjoyable and not just as a chore. When students associate movement with fun, they are much more likely to stay active after they graduate.

I am glad we learned this because it gave me a stronger sense of purpose for why I am studying to be a PE teacher. Lately, I have been wondering if there was any meaning in what I do, but this week reminded me that there is. Staying active plays a critical role in preventing chronic diseases and obesity. By teaching my students how to enjoy exercise and movement, I am helping them build habits that can keep them healthy for life. Knowing that I can make that kind of difference renewed my motivation to continue teaching PE.

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