Physical Education (PE) and Health

Physical Education (PE) and Health are vital components of the American high school curriculum, focusing on physical fitness, wellness, and life skills that support students’ overall development and long-term well-being.

Physical Education (PE) in high school is designed to foster physical health, encourage teamwork, and instill lifelong habits for an active lifestyle. The curriculum includes a wide range of activities—from team sports and individual fitness training to yoga and aerobic exercises—aimed at developing motor skills, coordination, and cardiovascular health. Beyond physical movement, PE also promotes social skills, such as leadership, collaboration, and discipline.

Health education is often integrated into or offered alongside PE. This component focuses on essential life skills and knowledge related to personal well-being. Topics typically include nutrition, mental health, substance abuse prevention, human development, and personal safety. With growing concerns over student mental health and rising obesity rates—according to the CDC, nearly 19% of U.S. youth were classified as obese in 2021—health and PE play a critical role in addressing both physical and emotional wellness.

Most U.S. states require students to complete one to two years of PE and health as part of their graduation criteria. These courses not only support academic success by improving concentration and reducing stress but also prepare students to make informed choices about their health throughout life.