The Importance of Physical Education

Physical education or health and physical education are the areas of knowledge that will ultimately drive our success engine. We are physical and spiritual beings. Our mind, body, and spirit are all connected and learning how they work together and how to care for them can save us from unnecessary pain and suffering. Knowing how to take care of our body, mind, and spirit will lead us down the path toward happiness, health, and wealth.

The most powerful tool of influence we have is to model good behaviors. We should be sure we are working on our health and fitness at the same time we preach to others about the value health, fitness, and participation in sports. Each of us will have our own issues, goals, and obstacles to living a healthy lifestyle, but we must strive for excellence in this area. When we live it, we will feel the difference. We will find it much easier to dream, act, achieve, and enjoy.

There are a few areas of health and physical education we will focus on at this time. First, I will discuss the area of fitness. Fitness has to do with stamina, strength, and flexibility. Our objective should be fit enough so that a day of physical activity does not lay us up for a week.

To begin a fitness routine you need to visit your doctor and let him or her know what you want to do. They will give you the practical advice based on your over-all health. In doing this fitness routine you should build in stretching, anaerobic exercise, and aerobic exercise. You most definitely do NOT need to buy expensive gym equipment or memberships at clubs to get started. There are a number of good programs you can do right at home. Having someone who will do this with you and hold you accountable would be a great benefit. Any fitness program you actually do and do consistently will help you in all areas of your life. You will have more energy, will perform better on the job, will feel less stress, and will sleep better. You must take action to achieve those benefits. The motivation to follow through and the building of the routine is most people's down-fall. That is topic of a future article.

The second area is that of athleticism. Athleticism covers things like stamhna, coordination, speed, and agility. It encompasses the skills that enable us to do many different physical tasks. It is also the skills that would allow us to participate in team and individual sports for our entire lives. Skiing, swimming, basketball, baseball, softball, cycling, tennis, bowling, and of course golf are several of many sports that can provide a fun and competitive outlet for people of all ages. For those who are not naturally athletic becoming fit and actually participating in athletic activities and exercises can and will improve that athleticism. You can find that competitive outlet and not feel embarrassed about your performance. Just go get in the game.

Nutrition is a broad topic. There are basic principles that you need to understand. First, your body needs basic building blocks for your cells. It must get vitamins and minerals in the correct amount to operate to its maximum abilities. We get those vitamins in minerals from the foods and drinks we consume. The next basic principle is that the fuel for our body is calories. If we consume more calories than our body uses it converts the extra calories to fat. When we consume fewer calories than our body needs we burn excess fat. In each case we can develop serious health conditions if either problem continues for an extended period of time. One other fundamental principle is we must keep our bodies hydrated. Dehydration is an often ignored and a serious problem in America today. Within those foundations there are numerous other nutrition related topics that can be discussed all of which can impact our overall health. There are a number of books that would be highly recommended reading.

The final category would be that of our well-being. It is this area that may well be the most important, yet the most misunderstood and the most difficult to share. Our well-being consists not only of our general health and fitness, but our spiritual well-being as well. It is that spiritual side that has be so over-looked in western medicine. We are spiritual beings anyway you look at it and denying that truth can lead to serious consequences.

Spirituality goes beyond who we are. It includes things like beliefs, values, emotions and intelligence. These aspects of a person's personality are not easily understood, but profoundly impact who they are and their well-being. There are psychological processes that can show people how to change your beliefs, values, and emotions. We can do things to improve our ability to think and reason. At the same time, genetics plays a role in those areas and will influence health and well-being as do injuries to the brain. Those factors are only part of the spiritual picture.
Spirituality has played a significant role in healing in most religions of the world. Eastern religions and native religions have kept more of those healing arts in tact over the centuries than have the western, Christian nations. Any discussion regarding spirituality and health would be incomplete if it did not include a discussion of faith and religious creeds. It also must be noted that while religious people tend to live longer and healthier than non-religious people being religious does not automatically mean you will be healthy; however, if you are truly a convert of a religious faith you will tend to be healthier than those who don't.

Does it matter what religious faith you are? First, we must point out that ALL religions are mutually exclusive. They have core beliefs that set them apart from other religious views and those core beliefs cannot all be true. Given that fact it is a reasonable conclusion that it does matter because each will have a different view on how an individual is to live their life and what happens to you upon death. It then would make sense to investigate the truth claims of the religions of the world. If you were to start your investigation with Christian truth claims you may find that you can dismiss all the other claims because a fundamental truth claim of Christianity is that Jesus Christ was the only way to reach God, the father. If those claims are true then all other claims to the contrary are false.

We truly don't fully understand the spiritual realm but we do know it does positively impact our physical and emotional health and well-being. So, seek the truth, build a relationship with God, and enjoy improved health and well-being.

Christian Barnard received his BA degree in Economics and his Masters degree in Special Education. After graduating, Christian began his study of Neuro-Linguistic Programming, hypnosis, Behavioral Modeling, Time Line Therapy techniques, Personal finance, and education. He spent much of his career working with unhealthy, unmotivated and unsuccessful students helping to get them back on track.

Allowing Students to Choose Physical Education Activities: The New And Advantageous Way To Teach

Imagine, it's 11 AM and you are in high school. You just finished your second class of the day and you are heading towards the gymnasium. During this three minute walk towards the gymnasium you stop and talk to your friends, say hi to an old teacher, and try and come up with a good excuse to get out of playing softball today. You hate softball and are even more upset because you are forced to play this game by your teacher. You arrive to class with a poor excuse and are forced to change for class. You go into the locker room, change for class, and walk into the gym dismayed at the fact that yet another day in physical education is spent doing something you don't enjoy.

This is a thought running through many average teenager's minds on an every day basis. Many students do not like what they are learning in physical education and refuse to participate in something they have no interest in. Many teachers are content with allowing students to sit out or just stand around during class and let it affect their grade. Is this doing any good? Is the job of a teacher really getting done? Absolutely not, the job of a teacher, specifically a Physical education teacher, is to teach students different healthy and active things they can do as a part of their lifetime fitness. Of course they are their to get their "required fitness time" in, but are they really doing anything about their fitness as they sit and watch half the class play a game they do not like? Are teachers helping fight the growing obesity rates by allowing students to not participate and let their grade suffer?

The solution to fighting the plague of students sitting out of physical education is adopting the style of Elective Physical Education. Elective Physical Education is exactly what it sounds like it is, Elective. The students get to choose which activity they want to participate in for that specific unit. The teachers get together and lay out a certain amount of different activities that the students can choose from to participate in during that time period. Then on the first day of each unit, the activities are all explained and the students choose which activity they will participate in. Now instead of students feeling forced into participating in something they do not enjoy, they have a choice of what they want to do, and what they will actively participate in.

There is a concern about how to make sure a broad variety of activities are covered by each student and to make sure they get proper exposure to different skills, athletic events, and fhtness techniques. Each unit should have a specific theme such as team sports, individual sports, lifetime fitness, cardiovascular fitness, leisure activities and much more. By laying out multiple choices within each unit allows for teachers to maximize time on task. Students will be more involved in the lesson, and teachers will spend less time trying to get everyone involved.

A major emphasis should be put on allowing the student to find something he or she likes and getting them involved. This is especially important when talking about lifetime fitness activities because this is where our teaching is going to affect the student the most. If every student can attend a class that they enjoy participating in and gain a new found love for a lifetime fitness activity, then as Physical Education teachers we have done our job in helping to keep our population healthy and active.

Social figure heads, such as First Lady Michelle Obama, have taken it into their own hands to help fight obesity in the United States. The first lady conducted a fitness day in which hundreds of students joined her in participating in a physical activity to help fight obesity. It is in using Elective Physical education that this can really make an impact on fighting obesity. We want every student to learn about how to stay healthy and how activity can help burn calories and keep them in a healthy physical shape. For one specific unit each activity can focus on checking one's heart rate, calculating calories burned per class, and measuring other health factors that are important to our physical fitness. Many students think that the only way to burn calories is to walk or run around the block. They need to be shown that while playing tennis they burn so many calories, or while they participate in expressive dance their heart rate reaches eighty percent of their maximum heart rate. Showing students that while participating in a variety of activities can be beneficial to their health is very important. Allowing the students to choose the activity is even more important because they will then have an interest in this subject area and will hopefully continue to participate int his activity outside of the gymnasium at their high school.

Now imagine its 3 PM, you are getting into your moms car on the way home from school and she asks you how your day was. You tell her about the A you got back on your math test, and the project you have due in history, then you tell her about how much fun you had in physical education. You tell her it is because you got to choose the activity you are going to do for the whole week and in doing that you learned how beneficial this activity is to your health. You tell her how you can't wait to walk to class tomorrow at 11 AM and go right back to were you left off today.

Why Physical Fitness Class Is Better Than Club/Membership Involvement for Students

As a future physical educator, I've learned the very importance of physical education while studying for my degree, but even more so with the involvement with my students. The truth of the matter is physical education class is vital to any student's success in the future. In the early grades we go over key motor skill and development tasks. As we progress through the grades, we target other more in depth skills, such as strategy and cooperative games, that incorporate these fundamental motor skills. This directly can be associated with our National Association of Sport and Physical Education standards, but more importantly teach students how to participate in a variety of skills. Other than these tasks, we also are able to associate physical fitness with fun and positive experiences, by offering our students a chance to expand in their imagination and creativity. These are also vital skills that teach students to come up with their own ideas and to adapt to different environments, as they will need to do these tasks on a daily basis. The physical education class is the only place that can allow such a dramatic and dynamic learning atmosphere.

The main reason clubs and other various programs do not and will not ever be able to fulfill the skills learned in our physical education class is because they are all based of specificity training. Specificity training is when clubs, memberships, etc. train children and adolescence to be particular good at one skill. For example, swimming memberships specifically would train students to only be proficient in in-water activities. However, it is common knowledge that a majority of physical fitness happens outside the water rather than in it. While I find the program to be of great value for those who want to go on to swim competitively, it does not teach the motor skills needed to even participate in swimming.

Let's say you were a student who joined the swim team in your area because your physical education class was terminated at the beginning of the year. Now that your program is cut, you need to attend swim practice after school three times a week for one hour. This means that homework along with dinner will have to wait or be rescheduled for a different time. You are also swimming around 20-50 laps during practice and learning the max of the four strokes available to swimmers. Now imagine that your physical education class was not terminated and is scheduled twice a week during your school day. After a given subject classes you go the gymnasium to find out this week and next you will be touching on your basketball skills with an instant activity and a scooter basketball tournament. The following two weeks your will be playing racket ball with again an instant activity, as well as, a mini round robin tournament. This example shows how there are multiple of other factors that go into students needing to attend an outside activity rather than a physical education class; for example, after school time taken away from valuable homework time and the fact that being involved in only one activity stiffens a student's skills and imagination. Also, it is imperative that as physical educator's we place emphasis on not only team sports, but also individual sports. Even back yard games such as Can Jam and Horse Shoes are games played at family and community events. If we do not teach these basic games to our students who will? Put yourself in our student's shoes with this example and examine which is truly better for accomplishing both these goals. The answer is physical education.

It is our duty as a physical education program to teach these skills to our students and associate them with positive memories. This will in turn allow students to be excited about physical fitness and be much more successful in the helping them continue to participate in physical fitness throughout their life. This is goal of not just the physical education class but expands throughout our community. As fitness is one of the essentials of life, it is one that is necessary to promote in our communities in a way that has value and success. The physical education classroom is our answer.

Physical Therapist Education Requirements - How to Get Into Physical Therapy School

education requirements. Such professionals perform a wide range of duties for those who have limited physical mobility due to illness or injury. Because therapists prescribe treatments and conduct hands-on therapy, they are required to obtain the appropriate education and pass a national licensing exam before they can practice.

For many years, the only formal education needed to work in the field was a bachelor's degree. However, almost all health care facilities now require a master's degree before they will consider one for employment.

Physical Therapist Education Requirements

College Programs

Educational requirements always include clinical rotations in a healthcare facility and course work that is completed in a classroom setting. There is a variety of options from which prospective physical therapists can choose from when they first set out to acquire the necessary education. For example, a student may decide to enrol in a science major such as anatomy, physiology, or biology. Certain schools also offer majors in health and physical education, the latter of which include pre-physical therapy in their curriculum.

Regardless of the option one chooses, one will typically be required to take courses in physiology, personal wellness and physical education, in order to meet the minimum education requirements.

Master's Program Prerequisites

Master's program prerequisites will vary depending upon the physical therapy school one selects; however, most have requirements regarding one's grade point average and his or her level of experience in a related field. In addition, all learning institutions that offer such programs require that a standardized test or entrance exam be completed, in which one must receive a passing grade.

Accreditation Requirements

Physical therapist education requirements should only be fulfilled at accredited schools. Although most students will find that almost all schools offering Master's degree programs are accredited, it is wise to inquire about the organization from which the school has received its accreditation. The only schools a student should consider are those that have been accredited by an organization that is recognized by the United States Department of Education, such as the Commission on Accreditation of Physical Therapy Education-CAPTE.

Additionally, those who do not graduate from an accredited school will not qualify to sit for the National Physical Therapy Examination. This is a test that must be passed in order for one to become licensed. It is designed to test the prospective physical therapist's knowledge of techniques, practices and physical therapy theories. Because licensing is required in all 50 states and one will not qualify for the exam without having attended an accredited school, the importance of this aspect should not be overlooked.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the field of physical therapy will grow at a higher than average rate until the year 2016. This is likely due to the many advancements being made in the field of medical technology. For this reason, it is wise for those seeking a career in this field to familiarize themselves with the aforementioned physical therapist education requirements.

Click here if you are thinking about becoming a physical therapist. Find out everything you need to know about the profession, including education and training, programs, schools and jobs.

Physical Education in Schools


Physical education in schools is becoming a popular discussion topic. Are children getting enough gym class time? Is the amount of physical activity directly correlated with their test scores? More and more studies are indicating that a good physical education is vital in growing healthier, smarter and more creative young people.

For years, gym class has been seen as a necessity in schools. Children have a need to be active and they thrive when instructors let them play organized sports and games. Scientists are beginning to understand why exactly this physical activity makes them thrive.

Aside from the obvious need to let children have a physical outlet for energy, some scientists see a correlation between physical education and mental health. Children that are more active are showing signs of higher amounts of serotonin. This compound acts as a neurotransmitter and has shown connections to an increased sense of health, happiness and well-being. Greater amounts of serotonin in the bloodstream can quite simply mean happier children.

Children who exercise also show an increased understanding of their bodies and how they work. This education can lead to children having greater self-awareness and a healthier self-image. Most children will be able to see the connection between exercise and change in muscle, fat or otherwise. They will be willing to establish a healthy relationship with exercise as a lifestyle choice and a good way to keep their bodies in the best shape.

Children who are enrolled in physical education, usually receive instruction in health, including nutrition. Children then begin to understand that when they eat healthy they have greater amounts of energy to expend in games and sports. Like exercise, they begin to learn that healthy eating is a lifestyle choice and one that can positively impact the growth of the skeletal and muscular systems. Children learn to take pride in affecting their growth through their food choices, and may cause them to become adults with healthy habits.

Finally, exercise positively affects the way children think. There are studies linking children in physical education classes with having higher test scores. Adults have been told for years that living an active lifestyle will keep them from losing reasoning skills and stops early memory loss. Exercise has been proven to promote brain growth. Now, we are beginning to see that the same brain growth occurs in physically active children. Kids who exercise show greater reasoning, critical thinking and memory skills.

Principals, coaches, teachers and parents alike are recognizing the necessity of keeping physical education in schools. No longer is it seen as a frivolous part of the day. Learning about exercise and how to exercise is promoting mentally and emotionally healthy children. These children are showing an increased understanding of their minds and bodies and how to lead a healthy lifestyle and eat properly. Perhaps most importantly, they are acquiring skills and habits necessary to become a healthy adult.

If you have questions about physical education New Orleans professionals are ready to answer your questions. For more information visit http://educatenow.net/

Preventing Childhood Obesity Begins in Physical Education Class


Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic that can threaten the health and life span of the world. Obesity is on the rise due to the lack of activity children have since schools are decreasing physical education classes.

Diagnosing obesity in children is different than in adults they use your body mass index (BMI). In children there are several factors in determining obesity. In children they measure your skin fold thickness, height and weight and their BMI. In children if there BMI is above the 95th percentile they are considered obese. Type 2 diabetes is rising...scientist...call this a major public health crisis. Newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes in children has increased from less than 5% before 1994 to 30% and 50% in more recent years.

Childhood obesity is not only predisposing kids for health risks but mental and social complications as well. Obese children are at risk for diseases such as hypertension, type II diabetes, and coronary heart disease. Once considered rare conditions in children, these diseases are seen with increasing frequency by pediatricians. With this rise of adult diseases in children it is decreasing the life expectancy of the next generation. With the rise of these diseases heath care costs will increase as well. This is an alarming rate because it can cause financial restraints on families who do not have access to health care. Families with limited access to health care will delay seeking treatment and will in turn have greater complications.

Children and adolescents aged 10-17 from families with an income below the poverty line were 74% more likely to be overweight or obese than those from families with a household income at 400% above the poverty line. Simply put, teachers need to address these issues within health education lessons [http://www.physical-education-lessons.com/category/health-education-lessons]. Other concerns with the rise in child hood obesity are children from families where the parents are always working and they are left home alone and depending on the neighborhood they live in it is not safe for them to play outside.

Another contributor to the rise in obesity is the food choices offered to school aged children. School lunches today are not filled with the essential vitamins and minerals children need to consume everyday and lunches contain almost two thousand calories in one serving. Vending machines are all around school buildings and they are filled with soft drinks other unhealthy foods. In our society children are consuming fewer amounts of fruits and vegetables and reaching for chips and soda. Vending machines are mainly filled with unhealthy foods so it makes it easier for kids to keep on getting bigger in size.

School lunch periods are decreasing in time due to academic requirements which makes it convenient for the child to consume food from the vending machine then eating a real lunch meal. Some schools have banned vending machines from schools or have set certain times for when students can use the vending machine. Preventive measures put in place by physical education teachers and health education teachers are helping students and parents fight the epidemic of childhood obesity.

Nicholas Cuttonaro is a Physical Education and Health Teacher from New York. He operates Physical-Education-Lessons.com which offers free tips and guides for teachers. Check out his other health education lessons [http://www.physical-education-lessons.com/category/health-education-lessons] to educate teachers and parents on his website.

Benefits of Engaging in Physical Education and Sport Activities

Engaging in natural health remedies such as physical education and sport activites are encouraged by health and nutrition experts today. The increasing number of health risks and conditions that are experienced by most people today, young or old, create concern about the impact of lifestyle and diet factors to increasing those risk factors. If you wanted to adapt a change in lifestyle, make sure to learn how you can incorporate those activities in your daily life and experience their benefits.

What is Physical Education?

Physical education is a form of instruction that focus on promoting activities that involve physical development and enhance an individual's overall well being. This is one reason why physical education is an integral part in a school's curriculum, especially for grade school to high school students. This is the time wherein the physical body is undergoing development and engaging in activities such as dance, sports, gymnastics, and calisthenics, among other PE classes are highly encouraged.

Aside from those physical activities, games can also become part of physical education and sport classes. The idea is to stimulate play behavior to develop physical fitness and skills. Although physical education has been largely associated with the modern society, it actually has a long history that dates back to the times of ancient Greece.

Teaching Physical Education

The ability for children to benefit from physical education and sport classes depend largely on the teaching methods employed. This is why PE teachers need a certain level of qualification before they are allowed to teach this subject. A baccalaureate degree is the most basic requirement for PE teachers and some could even have concentration studies in the area of human behavior and biology.

Aside from teaching physical education and sport in schools, there is also a large demand for PE instructors in other sectors. This is partly due to the recent surge in health and fitness awareness with the need to stay active being considered as one of the healthy yet natural alternatives to combating common diseases and health risks.

Sport Activities

Although sports is viewed today as a competitive activity, it can also be practiced for leisure and fitness purposes. There are various level of sports activities that one can engage in such as amateur, leisure, and professional sports.

Sports classes are also held in schools to encourage students to participate actively for physical stimulation. After all, sports is not only fun and competitive, but it also teaches one the importance of taking care of your body and well being in terms of physical self-discipline. There are several sports activities that one can choose from such that it is easier to commit yourself into this activity, depending on what you enjoy doing most. Some of the most popular sports today include basketball, football, soccer, volleyball, tennis, swimming, to name a few.

Benefits

To encourage your kids to engage in physical education and sport activities, here are some of the rewards for doing so:

• Depending on the type of sport, it can encourage social behaviors and improve one's ability to work with a team.

• It boosts your endurance and fitness level such that you stay healthier for longer.

• It teaches one self-discipline to adapt a healthy lifestyle and take good care of one's body.

• It promotes physical development and acquire essential physical skills.

Janelle Farley is a qualified sport management professional who is passionate about everyone leading a healthy and active lifestyle. She invites you to visit [http://www.juniorsportsecrets.com] to find out more about how you can motivate your children to lead happy and healthy lives.

Educational Value of Games and Sports

Healthy mind can be found only in a healthy body. In a weak body there cannot be a healthy and active mind. And for a healthy body physical exercise is a must. Without physical exercise, our body will grow weak, lethargic and dull. The aim of education is the all round development of a personality. It cannot afford to neglect the physical aspect of a student. Development of mind and body are equally important in any good education.

Want of proper physical exercise in the form of games and sports develops many mental problems. Mere intellectual attainment is not enough. Good health and sound body are also a must to face the challenges of life. Therefore, games and sports are an integral part of school education. Education will remain incomplete without physical training and exercise. "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy" is a famous saying. After studies some kid of physical exercise, games and sports are necessary. The refresh body and mind and provide recreation. A game of football or vallyball in the open air is very refreshing. A game of hockey or a match of badminton will help a student regain his lost mental and physical energy. There will be greater intake of oxygen, better blood circulation and digestion because of these. In the open, where games are played there is fresh air, openness and presence of nature. They have a very healthy influence on the players. Running, Jumping, kicking, swimming etc. provide vigorous exercise to our limbs and organs of the body. They provide us physical fitness, courage endurance, cooperation and team spirit. The players are more disciplined and fit than others. Sports and games along with education prepare us to stand up and face the challenges of life.

Games and sports are a valuable form of education. They develop our skills and abilities to the maximum. They teach discipline, obedience and cooperation. Every game has it own rules and regulations. They are binding on the players. All players have to follow them. There is penalty on their violation. One can never win a match without following the laws of the game. He has to abide by the judgement of the refree. It teaches a player how important are laws. It makes clear how important it is to follow the rules and regulations games and sports help us in producing very disciplined citizens, leaders and professionals. They teach how to cooperate with one another and achieve success. It is a playground or gymnasium where team spirit, cooperation and endurance can be taught best, games teach players how to ignore individual interests for the sake of greater interests of the team and society. This teaching of sacrifice is of great social and national interest. Games also teach fair play and faith in equality and justice. They enable us to take defeat and victory in a cheerful spirit.

Games also allow an outlet to our suppressed energy. It helps us a lot in remaining peaceful and non-violent. When our energy is suppressed we become irritative, short-tempered, violent hooliganism and acts of lawlessness. Games also provide us the best use of leisure time.
Famous players and sports persons bring credit for themselves and the country. They are famous and popular and work as country's cultural ambassadors. They strengthen international relations. They also develop and promote patriotism and national integration. But games are a means and not an end in themselves. They should not be practiced at the cost of studies. Excess of everything is bad. They should be played and enjoyed only in spare time. They are real boon and blessing if done properly and wisely.

India needs good and great players and sports persons. They are in great demand to participate in national and international events. India's record in this respect has been very poor. The boys and girls should be caught at the very young age and trained in different games and sports. There should be no school without a proper playground attached to it. Mere mental education is of no use without physical education. They should go hand-in-hand as integral parts of an education. They are complementary to each other.

Rahul K has been building websites for many years and runs a number of successful websites. He is the owner of www.solvedquestionpapers.com. Further articles can be found on his website at www.mylovepoems.org

Keeping Physically Fit Through College Will Help Boost Health And Maybe Reduce Depression

During your search for the ideal college or university from which to earn your degree, you'll likely have specific features and benefits in mind. Aside from academics, colleges have a lot to offer students in the way of recreation, cultural activities, and opportunities for personal growth. A trend in many colleges today is unique fitness opportunities. Whether you are majoring in an area of study where fitness is important, such as Physical Education, or whether you are merely looking for motivation to get off the couch, unique physical fitness opportunities at your college may be a big draw for you.

Colleges are offering more and more fun fitness opportunities these days in response to a trend of college students being out-of-shape, overweight, and unhealthy. While the "freshman fifteen" may be a myth where most college students are concerned, it is true that many college students do gain weight and slack off in terms of physical fitness. Many students rarely get off campus or even leave their dorms for recreational or fitness-related purposes.

Physical fitness can ward off some ailments common to college students, such as depression, anxiety, and weight gain. In order to foster a more healthful college experience, many schools have lately been doing their best to encourage students to get moving. In fact, a fitness class may be a requirement for graduation at your school!

If fitness opportunities are a priority during your college search, the first place to visit is the gym. Most colleges have a gym or fitness center, but they aren't all created equally. Are you looking for an Olympic-sized swimming pool? An indoor track? Tennis courts? Make a list of your wants and needs prior to visiting a school.

You can also pick up a schedule of fitness classes regularly offered at the gym. Most colleges offer free courses, such as aerobics and yoga. Does the college or university you are considering offer fitness courses for credit, as well? Many colleges offer one-credit fitness courses that allow you to get in shape while working toward your degree!

Consider your career goals when exploring the physical fitness opportunities at various colleges. If you want to be a Physical Education teacher, a sports therapist, or another professional who requires knowledge of exercise and fitness techniques, taking a wide variety of fitness courses is important for you. Does your college offer fitness classes in the most popular disciplines of today, such as Zumba and Pilates? You'll better engage with your students and clients if you have knowledge of the popular fitness programs that appeal to them.

What if physical fitness really isn't your thing at all? If you are worried about your prospective college's physical education requirement, check to see if the school offers low-key and fun options for fulfilling these credits. Horseback riding, dance, and even bowling are some courses offered for credit at some schools.

Physical education is an important part of a healthy and happy college experience. Even if you are taking classes at home through the computer, taking steps to be physically active is equally important, if not more Finding the accredited colleges online or university that is best for you involves many important factors, but don't forget to keep fitness opportunities in mind as you pursue a degree program.

A Holistic Approach to Education

If you think that education simply means going to school and graduating with a decent grade, then you have got a lot of learning to do! This kind of education is just the tip of the iceberg. Once you get to know the holistic approach to learning a little better, you'll soon realize how much learning things can tie up with the improvement of your health and wellbeing! Here are five concrete examples of this approach in action:

1. The Holistic Approach to Physical Education
Physical education is not just about measuring your physical strength, endurance, and all those other more empirical skills. In truth, this subject has a lot more to do with your health and wellbeing than you could ever expect! Instead of just doing whatever your coach tells you to do just to get it over with, why not read up on how these physical activities are controlled by your mental activities, or how being physically fit bodes well for people who wish to become spiritually fit as well? The body is an amazing machine that can offer a lot more than you could ever hope for, so do your research well!

2. The Holistic Approach to Math
Math, also known as the hardest of the hard sciences, may not seem like something that could truly benefit your health and wellbeing if you study it. In truth, though, math has a lot to do with all aspects of life experience-the physical, the mental, and the emotional. The physical is fairly obvious, thanks to geometry and the like. The mental is due to all the heightened brain activity studying math can encourage in you, which is always a good thing. Finally, math opens up your spiritual side by letting you go beyond tangible objects and seeing them in their most abstract and conceptual forms.

3. The Holistic Approach to Music
This is a fairly easy one to understand. Music, after all, has long been known to reach far beyond the physical world, so much so that it is often used as therapy to improve one's health and wellbeing. Music is mentally stimulating-countless mothers, for instance, prefer to listen to Mozart and other classical music while pregnant, in the hopes that this would stimulate their child's brain activity. And, of course, music and its effects on people can be described as downright spiritual. It may get your body moving, but it will also get your mind and your soul dancing as well!

4. The Holistic Approach to History
It's pretty common knowledge that history is one of the richest and most fascinating subjects any person can encounter while in school. But if you approach the topic in a more holistic manner, it can become a thousand times more fascinating than you could ever imagine! The physical facts and bits of trivia are interesting enough, but really getting into the mental state of certain historical leaders or the people of a particular age, or delving into the spiritual state of things during a particularly poignant point in time when people's health and wellbeing were in danger, makes learning what happened in the past infinitely more enjoyable.

5. The Holistic Approach to Home Economics
A lot of you may have groaned at the thought of taking a home economics class, but you'd be surprised how looking at this course more holistically can do a lot of good for your health and wellbeing! Home economics can work wonders on your mental capabilities, especially when you are tasked to do design work via embroidery or macramé. It takes a lot of brain power to create something beautifully complex, after all! And as for the spiritual side of things, doing routine arts and crafts that require long hours of patience can help train you to have an enduring form of spirituality.

Going to school, when done through a more holistic approach that takes all aspects of who you are into consideration, will most certainly be an incredibly interesting experience. In fact, you'd be hard-pressed to find the more holistic types of students wanting to graduate right away. This approach is conducive to learning more and more for the rest of your life, and this is most definitely an admirable trait in this day and age.

Prue Lowen has extensive knowledge in the holistic approach, and she is willing to share it with everyone. Visit her site today!

Teaching Hope for Children With Disabilities

Physical activity is now a keyword in the world today. People are beginning to realize the benefits of participating in physical activity regularly. With childhood obesity on the rise with rates more than tripling in the past 30 years. (1) It's no wonder children are being encouraged to get outside and off the couch; although there is one group of children that aren't getting as big of a push, I am referring to the children with disabilities. Children with disabilities need the same physical activity as other children their age, and it can be difficult to find a place where they can get active.

Do not get me wrong there are programs for them such as Special Olympics and other activities that children with disabilities can get involved in, but some parents feel their sons or daughters aren't prepared for activities. Coming up through public schools I have seen the special education students in the physical education classrooms. Majority of teachers will try to get them involved in any way that they can, but it can be difficult because they aren't the only children in the class. It is hard to give them the one on one time that they need to learn the skill when you are supposed to be watching the entire class. The gym can also be an overwhelming place for children with disabilities with all the loud noises and people.

One way to combat this is to have peer educators or para-educators to help out the physical education teachers. (2) By having the support the teacher needs the child will be able to get the one on one attention that they need in order to be successful in learning the skills being taught. A peer educator can be any other student that has a study hall during the class period where the child with disabilities is in physical education. The physical education teacher can have a selection process, similar to that of the peer leadership selection that many schools are incorporating today. After the selections are made, peer educators will have to be trained by the physical education teacher before working with students. Training should include how to communicate with the child, how to be encouraging, and how to work with the child. Once training is complete they will be allowed to enter the classroom to help the child with disabilities to be able to learn skills. By involving children without disabilities the teacher will be opening the door for success. The child with disabilities will be happy and excited that they now have a partner and that they are playing with children without disabilities. The child without disabilities will gain a deeper understanding and compassion for the child with disabilities. It is a forever giving circle that will make all participants happy.

A para-educator is also known as classroom aids. Many classroom aids are available to help during physical education classes, but they don't know how. The job of the physical educator is to get them involved. Ask them to please be prepared with sneakers on the day of physical education. The physical educator must also help them to understand that they are needed. Once they feel that they are needed and that they will be appreciated they will do their best to help the physical educator. If the teacher feels as though they aren't doing their best that is why the peer educators will be there. With the peer educators there the teacher can still be teaching while the students would be getting the one on one education that they need.

Many people don't realize what a difference one on one education can do for these students. I have recently been working with a child who has autism. He rarely participated in his physical education class because he was overwhelmed and not confident in himself. I began to work with him outside of school, just teaching him different sport skills and activities that he can participate in. I am happy to announce that he is now participating more in his physical education class, and is running around the house after school instead of just sitting on the couch and watching the television. Just because they have a disability doesn't mean that they don't need the same amount of physical activity as other children. I have realized that on days where the child has a bad day at school after the session of playing his mood is completely different. It will go from mad/upset to relaxed and happy. I have seen the child gain a sense of pride after performing tasks that he thought were impossible because he had tried and failed so many times. The child has gained more confidence that he can now participate in his physical education class with other students. This is what physical activity and teaching skills to children with disabilities can do for them.

Every parent wants the best for their child. Every parent wants their child to feel confident and happy. Physical activity can do that for children with disabilities. It is so important to give them a chance to feel like the other children and to be successful. Giving them one on one education to teach them sports skills and ways to be active is just one way that it can be done. By giving children with disabilities these chances to be successful in activities that can be performed for the rest of their life, you are giving them hope. The reason I say this is because they will be more confident and able to try new things and get involved with more activities which gives them more chances for success.

1. http://www.simplefit.net/static_pages/Autistic-Children/
2. Dr. Dan Chandler, Professor at The College of New Jersey

Physical Education Need and Importance

Benefits and Importance of Physical Education | Body Fitness and Health

In the Present World of Space age and automation era, all human beings appear to be living a more and more inactive life. They ride instead of walk, sit instead of stand and watches instead of participants. Such type of inactivity or sedentary life is detrimental to mental and physical health. Thus, there is great need for physical education as a part of balanced living.

Following are the importance or benefits of physical education -

1. It is needed because due to advanced technology the lifestyle of people becomes sedentary and they become passive entertainer.

2. It is needed during childhood for proper growth and development.

3. It is beneficial during adulthood to maintain good health and fitness.

4. During old Age, it is important to prevent and treat various ailments and disease.

5. It is important as it provides us the knowledge of our bodies from musculoskeletal, physiological and biochemical point of view.

6. It teaches us various physical activities that can be practiced now in later life such as motor skills for the games and sports of volleyball, tennis, swimming and so on.

7. It also teaches us the value of ethical behaviour in sporting situations.

8. It teaches us the value of physical fitness and how to become physically fit.

9. It teaches us the value of physical fitness and how to become physically fit.

10. It is important for aesthetic reasons as by participation in physical fitness programmes like gymnastics and dance, beauty and grace in cultivated in the movement.

11. It is also important for catharsis reasons with mean releasing of energy, emotion, tension or frustration and some people let off their extra steam by participating in various games and sports which are part of physical education. This way physical education helps in checking juvenile delinquency.

The Requirements to Teach Physical Education - PE Teacher Requirements

The requirements to teach Physical Education in the United States are, first and foremost, an accomplished four years bachelor degree in athletic training and physical education, or something equivalent. You must also be physically fit and able to demonstrate application of theories. A background of athletic sports is an advantage and good communication skills are essential. A Physical Education teacher is responsible for ensuring physical fitness and health in the curriculum by exercise, sports, and other activities. One is not merely a gym supervisor but also knowledgeable in nutrition. Not only are PE teachers responsible for physical activities, but also for teaching health and nutrition in a classroom setting.

There are a variety of degree options that an aspiring PE Teacher can choose from including BS in Heath Science, BS in Health and Wellness, Master of Public Heath, Master of Healthcare Administration, and more. Some courses you might see in college are Physical Education Theory, Theories of Sport Pedagogy, Team Sports, Individual Sports, General Teaching Methods, Human Development and Physical Education Classes for the Physically Impaired.

The salaries for PE teachers are on par with other teacher with salary averages ranging from $33,000 to $51,000 per year. But this will highly depend on the state where you will be teaching. For example, according to the Indiana University website, the annual average income of a Physical Education teacher at a middle school level is at around $24,700 with health-care and retirement benefits.

Physical education subjects do not demand an excessive amount of physical work anymore. Rather, the goal of the PE department should be to promote physical fitness and help students commit to a lifelong healthy habits and activities. Teaching PE also involves coaching, physical therapy, personal training and professional athletics. Furthermore, medical and health related professions may also be accepted. Another abstract that is highly recommended by schools is staying fit. This is to inspire students to stay healthy by making a role model for them. Sports are also other examples of expanded horizons for a Physical Education teacher. As a PE teacher you might be expected to be capable of training and working with student team athletes on different strategic approaches. The PE teacher is also often looked to be involved as a coach in sports they specialize in. Physical education teachers are responsible for not only the PE subject alone but also the overall athletic physical fitness elements in a school's curriculum.

A good and qualified Physical Education teacher, coach, or instructor must always be an advocate of health both inside and out. This includes hygiene, general heath, exercising, nutrition, and more. Not only should the student see a PE teacher as a healthy model, but also someone who is sincerely devoted and committed to holistic health. These professionals extend their knowledge and apply their wisdom outside the boundaries of gym exercises and protein shakes. They must inspire and encourage their students to stay healthy and commit to changes that will allow then to live healthy and active lives.

Sidney is a high school teacher and writes on a variety of topics. Please visit online Teaching Degree Programs and Become Math Teacher for more information and teacher resources.

Physical Therapy Programs - Everything You Need to Know


Various physical therapy programs are available for those who wish to pursue a career in the medical field as a licensed physical therapist. The first step toward working in this profession is acquiring the appropriate education, therefore it is wise for students to review all their options before making a final decision.

Physical therapists are professionals who evaluate patients with affected mobility and determine how best they can benefit from the various therapies available.

In all 50 states, such professionals must complete a physical therapy Master's degree program or obtain a doctor of physical therapy degree. Each option must be pursued at an accredited school. Otherwise, the student will not qualify to take the national licensing exam, which is also a requirement in all 50 states for those who wish to practice in the field.

Physical Therapy Programs

Educational Requirements

To enroll in a doctorate or Master's degree program, one must first acquire an undergraduate degree that includes basic coursework in anatomy, physiology and biology. However, some schools will allow students to enroll in a program without much coursework having been completed, although this will vary greatly depending on the educational institution one has selected. For this reason, it is important for prospective students to inquire about such aspects when reviewing various physical therapy programs. All employees require that one's initial education be obtained at an accredited school.

Over 250 colleges and universities throughout the country offer accredited programs. Therefore, finding an appropriate school should not a difficult task. The majority of programs split the learning time between classroom participation and hands-on clinical experience.

Considerations

As previously mentioned, one's options include a master's or doctorate program; however, the emphasis on doctorate programs has grown significantly over the past five years. Additionally, the American Physical Therapy Association's goal is to push for mandatory doctorate degrees for all physical therapists by the year 2020. Of course, this does not mean that the Association's objective will be realized, but it is certainly something that prospective students should consider when reviewing the various programs available.

Time Frame

Due to the fact that the requirements of each program vary somewhat, the time it takes one to complete his or her education will also vary. Factors that influence this time frame include the type of program in which one enrolls in, and the number of general education courses he or she has acquired prior to enrollment. Once an individual has obtained a bachelor's degree in one of the required sciences, a Master's degree will typically take an additional two years. Those who plan to pursue a doctor of physical therapy can anticipate an additional three years of formal education.

Cost

The cost of physical therapy programs will vary based on the type of program one selects and which school he or she attends. However, Master's degrees can typically be acquired for approximately $50,000, while a doctorate program usually costs approximately $65,000. However, it is recommended that prospective students inquire about the average cost in the state where they will be attending school, as these figures may be significantly higher or lower.

Click here if you are thinking about becoming a physical therapist. Find out everything you need to know about the profession, including education and training, programs, schools and jobs.

Physical Therapy Colleges - What You Need to Know

Due to the vast array of physical therapy colleges from which one can choose from, choosing the right one may appear to be a daunting task. However, there are ways to narrow down one's choices and make the selection process a bit easier.
Certain aspects such as the area of the country where one lives will certainly factor into the decision, as will the amount of money a person can set aside for their education. Initially, however, one must understand the educational requirements associated with the profession before beginning to review the various physical therapy schools to choose from.
Physical Therapy Colleges
Requirements
The minimum education required for a person who wishes to become a licensed physical therapist is a Master's degree in physical therapy; however, some students choose to pursue a doctorate. Most colleges that offer Master's degree programs require a bachelor's degree in neuroscience, athletic training, biology or a similar subject. These requirements will vary from one learning institution to the next, but almost all schools require a bachelor's degree in one of the above subjects.
From the time one first enters college, it will take the student six to seven years to complete their education in order to work as a physical therapist. Those who choose to pursue a doctor in physical therapy can anticipate approximately eight years of schooling. Certain colleges also require that one have a grade point average of 3.0 or greater to be considered for admission.
Accreditation
Almost all physical therapy colleges are accredited, but one should still inquire about this aspect during the research process. Accredited colleges offer programs that have undergone extensive evaluation by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy or the United States Department of Higher Education. Such accreditation ensures that a student will receive a high quality education from qualified instructors. In addition, to be deemed eligible to sit for the national licensing exam, one must have graduated from an accredited college.
Popular Choices
Although there is a vast array of schools from which one can choose from in the United States, some top choices according to educational experts include: the University of California and the University of Pittsburgh.
Those who are interested in undergraduate programs should consider colleges such as Connecticut's University of Hartford or the University of Evansville, which is located in the state of Illinois. These two schools offer combined bachelor of health science and doctor of physical therapy programs.
The American Physical Therapy Association offers up-to-date information with regard to the accreditation status and entrance requirements of various physical therapy colleges. The Association can also assist potential students with selecting the school that is most appropriate for their needs and budget. As the field is predicted to grow at an impressive rate, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, those pursuing an education with the intention of joining this field are making a wise investment in their future.
Click here if you are thinking about becoming a physical therapist. Find out everything you need to know about the profession, including education and training, programs, schools and jobs.

Continuing Your Education With Physical Therapy

The healthcare industry sets stringent standards for education, training and licensing for all its professionals including physical therapists obviously because the health, welfare and, ultimately, lives of their patients rests largely in their hands. One of the most important training standards is continuing education, which every physical therapist is well-advised to undergo for several reasons.

Why Undergo Continuing Education

There are several reasons for physical therapists, of which the most important are:

• The requirements for renewal of licenses among physical therapists include credits in continuing education, as mandated by state law. For example, Florida law requires licensed physical therapists to undergo education in various areas like clinical education, clinical management and clinical science for a certain number of hours.

• The courses are designed to assist licensed physical therapists stay abreast of the latest developments in their field. New techniques, tools and treatment methods can be learned from these courses.

• The maintenance of memberships in professional organizations (i.e., the American Physical Therapy Association) requires proof of continuing education even among long-time practitioners.

It is not just the physical therapist that benefit from continuing education - patients become the recipients of better services from their physical therapists, too.

Types of Continuing Education

The most common venue for continuing education courses are physical therapy schools including colleges and universities for obvious reasons. These venues are also the most convenient since the courses are offered the whole year-round, which cannot be said of other types. Physical therapists nowadays can choose between brick-and-mortar schools and online sites although the latter must be approached with great care particularly in their accreditation status.

Other venues for education are audio conferences, industry seminars, and professional workshops conducted by the likes of the APTA. Just make sure that these venues are accredited under state law so that the number of hours can be counted as a valid requirement for renewal of licenses.

It should be noted that the education can be stated either in contact hours or in education units (CEU). Providers of continuing education courses state the number of CEU while state licensing boards state their renewal requirements in contact hours. The difference between the two can mean renewal and non-renewal of licenses.

For example, most states have a ratio of 10 contact hours equal to 1 CEU. Keep in mind that an hour in one contact hour is not necessarily a full 60 minutes but it should be at least 50 minutes in duration. Thus, 1 CEU equals 1 contact hour while a.2 CEU equals 2 contact hours and so on and so forth.

Since each state registration board has different licensing requirements, it is best to ask the board before enrolling in continuing education classes. You want to ensure that you are complying with minimum requirements while also enhancing your knowledge of the latest advancements in your field.

For more great information about finding the best physical therapy schools we have a range of great tools and resources on our website http://thephysicaltherapyexperts.com/ so visit us today.

Physical Health and Education

Physical Education is a way to keep the body of common man in shape and fit. Physical education is part of general education. Under it comes those exercises, which helps to achieve the goal of education. It does not only help in development of the body and mind, but help to develop nature, behavior, character and habit also. The individual earns knowledge by various experiences which influence ones nature behaviors and character.

There are many false concepts about physical education in our society
They are as under.

1. Some takes it to P.T (physical training) when it is not so. This phrase is used in force where the member of the force takes some particular exercise to be keep themselves physically fit.

2. Some takes it only for sports like hockey, football, and cricket.

3. Some take it to be drill. This word is also taken from forces where it applies for a particular serialized job.

4. Some takes it to be some competitive activities like race; jump etc.

5. Some limit it to Gymnastics only.

6. Some say its physical culture.

In fact there is no symptoms for Physical Education but they are all included for the purpose. It is not similar to other subject but placed somewhat in a better position. This concept is taking its right place these days. Real physical education should not be limit to nay part of it or days. Athletic, gymnastics, and all sports come under Physical Education.

New physical Education helps to develop balance physical, mental and emotional development of the person. It is natural also that physical development goes side by side with mental and emotional development. If mind is not healthy, body cannot remain healthy. Sick body's mind will also become sick. The child's all round development is the main objective of physical Health and Education.

Physical Therapy Schools - How to Make the Right Choice


There are many physical therapy schools from which one can choose from when pursuing the required education to become a physical therapist.

People working in this field assist individuals who are experiencing movement restriction due to an illness or injury. Job openings are expected to increase by as much as 30 percent by the year 2018, and according to the United States Bureau of Labor statistics, this may be a modest estimate. For this reason, those who anticipate pursuing this career path should give serious thought to their education.

Physical Therapy Schools

Education Requirements
It is necessary that one becomes specially trained, if they want to work in this profession. A Master's degree is the minimum education level required of those who plan to become physical therapists. However, many students choose to pursue a doctor of physical therapy degree, although this decision is usually dependent on several factors such as tuition costs and how quickly the individual wishes to become employed.

Research
One of the best actions prospective students can take is to start his or her research early. For instance, when one is taking courses during his or her first year of college, it is wise to devote some time to researching the various physical therapy schools available and their required prerequisites. This is because such requirements vary from school to school, making it essential to obtain detailed information in advance.

Grade Point Average
It is also imperative that one maintain a high grade point average during college. Many physical therapy schools require a 3.0 minimum grade point average before they will consider a student for admission. It is also wise to maintain a high grade point average if one will be seeking grants to help pay for his or her college education, as most grants of this type have specific grade point average requirements.

Selecting a School
There is a vast array of learning institutions from which one can choose from when pursuing a career as a physical therapist. However, one should only consider schools that are accredited by the American Physical Therapy (APTA) Association or a similar institution. Those who do not acquire their education from an accredited school will not qualify to take the national licensing exam. Without a license, finding work will be difficult, if not impossible.

The APTA publishes a bi-annual list of the top ten physical therapy schools in the country. These schools are ranked by experts, with specific areas such as program quality and student to instructor ratio being taken into account.

The University of California, the University of Pittsburgh, and Washington University in St. Louis currently rank in first, second and third place, respectively. However, there are many other physical therapy schools to choose from, and therefore, one should not give up his or her dream of becoming a physical therapist if a top ranking school is out of reach, either geographically or financially. Regardless of the school one chooses, pursuing an education in the field of physical therapy is a worthwhile endeavour.

Click here if you are thinking about becoming a physical therapist. Find out everything you need to know about the profession, including education and training, programs, schools and jobs.

Physical Therapy Assistant - Helpful Job Information

Even in a tough economy, the health care industry continues to grow, offering many employment opportunities. For those who want job security while working with patients on a daily basis, becoming a physical therapist assistant is an excellent idea. The education required is minimal compared to that needed to enter many other medical jobs. It offers a rewarding occupational choice and is an excellent step for those who want to get involved in the health care field.

The Duties of a PTA

A physical therapist assistant (PTA) offers support to the physical therapist, taking care of certain office duties and treatments. Therapists rely on their assistants to ensure patients are comfortable and performing physical therapy exercises safely. Some of the potential duties of a PTA may include the following:

- Applying cold packs and hot packs

- Taking patient notes

- Documenting patient progress

- Taking care of electrical stimulation equipment

- Assisting with stretching or exercises

- Teaching certain exercises

This job includes quite a bit of standing, lifting and kneeling. Schedules may fluctuate, depending on the specific facility where a PTA is working. While assistant jobs are available in hospitals and private practices, schools, skilled nursing facilities, fitness centers, rehab facilities, hospices and nursing homes often employ physical therapist assistants as well.

Educational Requirements

While this medical job requires less education than many other careers, there still are some education requirements that must be fulfilled. Most states require that PTAs attend an accredited program and earn their associate degree. These programs, offering at quality physical therapy schools, include classroom instruction and clinical instruction. Expect to take classes in first aid, lifesaving skills, physiology and anatomy.

Salary and Benefit Information

For those just starting in this field, the starting salary usually ranges between $15-20 per hour. On average, the median salary for a licensed PTA is close to $46,000 per year, although some make more than $55,000 a year. Smaller practices usually pay a bit less than some of the larger institutions that hire PTAs. Usually good benefits are offered to PTAs, which may include sick days, health care, pension plan, insurance, education reimbursement, paid time off and bonuses.

Advancement Opportunities

After becoming a PTA, opportunities for advancement are available. One of the best ways to advance in this field is to specialize in a specific therapy area, such as cardiopulmonary therapy, pediatric therapy, integumentary therapy, geriatric therapy, neuromuscular therapy or musculoskeletal therapy. Once a PTA has some experience, other high paying alternatives may be an option, such as contract work or self-employment. Other ways to advance include being promoted to supervisory jobs, gaining seniority within a company or taking a job at a larger institution. For those who want to go even further in the medical field, it is possible to become a licensed physical therapist with a bit more education, which requires a bachelor's degree.

For more great information about finding the best physical therapy schools we have a range of great tools and resources on our website http://thephysicaltherapyexperts.com so visit us today.

Check The Records Of Physical Therapy Schools

Physical therapy is a critical part of the health care system today. Without optimal movement the body ceases to function properly. Injury or illness can affect the efficiency of body motion, and for this reason physical therapists are required to help bring it back to as close to full function as possible. Those who choose to go into this profession find it fulfilling and the satisfaction received goes beyond any paid compensation.

One cannot just walk in off the street and secure a position as a therapist. It takes a few years education to reach this goal. When an individual is ready to embark upon an education in this field of health care, they must first decide between the many physical therapy schools that exist. What should one look for when selecting a school?

Accreditation is a Must

Accreditation should be the first thing looked at when choosing any higher education school and this is true for those wishing to become physical therapists. Checking the list of accredited schools before enrolling will help prevent getting an education that does not carry the weight it should. Accreditation proves that schools have passed stringent requirements for becoming high quality education facilities. Employers will be looking for this.

Choose Schools with High Rates of Students Passing Licensing Tests

Once the education portion of training is completed, it is time to test the knowledge and skills gained through the school. Schools that provide the best training will show up higher on the list of top educational facilities and will have higher rates of students passing the licensing exam.

Clinical Education is Important

When looking for the right school to help pass the exam, one should be looking for those that offer good opportunities for hands on learning. This type of learning takes place in medical facilities such as hospitals, private PT facilities, and nursing homes. Without this training before receiving a diploma, it would be difficult for students to learn everything required to care for patients or even pass the clinical portion of the exam.

Locating Good PT Schools

There are many methods one can use to locate good schools that will provide the education needed to practice this satisfying profession. One could check with a local college to see what is offered in the area. It is also possible to find a great school by going online. In order to make a good choice, check the entrance requirements and accreditation status as well as the percentage of students who pass the licensing exam. You will also want to make sure that you will be able to afford the fees charged.

The more information you can find out about the schools that offer PT education, the better informed and prepared you will be to make your decision.

For more great information about finding the best physical therapy schools we have a range of great tools and resources on our website http://thephysicaltherapyexperts.com so visit us today.

Physical Education in Schools

Physical education in schools is becoming a popular discussion topic. Are children getting enough gym class time? Is the amount of physical activity directly correlated with their test scores? More and more studies are indicating that a good physical education is vital in growing healthier, smarter and more creative young people.

For years, gym class has been seen as a necessity in schools. Children have a need to be active and they thrive when instructors let them play organized sports and games. Scientists are beginning to understand why exactly this physical activity makes them thrive.

Aside from the obvious need to let children have a physical outlet for energy, some scientists see a correlation between physical education and mental health. Children that are more active are showing signs of higher amounts of serotonin. This compound acts as a neurotransmitter and has shown connections to an increased sense of health, happiness and well-being. Greater amounts of serotonin in the bloodstream can quite simply mean happier children.

Children who exercise also show an increased understanding of their bodies and how they work. This education can lead to children having greater self-awareness and a healthier self-image. Most children will be able to see the connection between exercise and change in muscle, fat or otherwise. They will be willing to establish a healthy relationship with exercise as a lifestyle choice and a good way to keep their bodies in the best shape.

Children who are enrolled in physical education, usually receive instruction in health, including nutrition. Children then begin to understand that when they eat healthy they have greater amounts of energy to expend in games and sports. Like exercise, they begin to learn that healthy eating is a lifestyle choice and one that can positively impact the growth of the skeletal and muscular systems. Children learn to take pride in affecting their growth through their food choices, and may cause them to become adults with healthy habits.

Finally, exercise positively affects the way children think. There are studies linking children in physical education classes with having higher test scores. Adults have been told for years that living an active lifestyle will keep them from losing reasoning skills and stops early memory loss. Exercise has been proven to promote brain growth. Now, we are beginning to see that the same brain growth occurs in physically active children. Kids who exercise show greater reasoning, critical thinking and memory skills.

Principals, coaches, teachers and parents alike are recognizing the necessity of keeping physical education in schools. No longer is it seen as a frivolous part of the day. Learning about exercise and how to exercise is promoting mentally and emotionally healthy children. These children are showing an increased understanding of their minds and bodies and how to lead a healthy lifestyle and eat properly. Perhaps most importantly, they are acquiring skills and habits necessary to become a healthy adult.

If you have questions about physical education New Orleans professionals are ready to answer your questions. For more information visit http://educatenow.net/