New Law Inforces Physical Activities In Virginia's Elementary Schools

Some children today are glued to devices during their free time that they opt to stay at home rather than play outside with their friends. They enjoy playing computer games than playing tags. These new types of games and fun keep children sedentary, which may contribute to problems like obesity. However, in Virginia, this problem is unlikely.

The Virginian Pilot reported that this week, Gov. Terry McAuliffe signed legislation at least 20 minutes of physical activity for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Thus, these children will be active for at least 100 minutes each week.

According to Better Health, being physically active helps one reduce his risk of heart attack, lower blood cholesterol level, lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes and cancer. It also helps one feel better and maintain a healthy weight.

The proponents believe that students should burn off their energy during the school day and develop exercise habits. These activities are often cut back because they are overridden with worries concerning test scores.

Parents were happy with the changes. "Anything we can do to get our kids moving is certainly important," said Kelly Kinnear, who has three children in Virginia Beach schools.

However, this change will not likely affect South Hampton Roads schools because they already require physical activities. For instance, Chesapeake students in first through fifth grade and full-day kindergarten already practice two 30-minute physical education classes per week and 15 to 20 minutes of recess on the remaining three days. Portsmouth offers 45 minutes of physical education classes weekly, Suffolk has 40 minutes of physical education weekly and Norfolk 45 minutes for three days a week.

Meanwhile, Virginia Beach elementary students receive 45 minutes of physical activity daily - 30 minutes in physical education and 15 minutes of recess activity. "We consider physical education in Virginia Beach just like any other core class," Lesley Hughes, the division's executive director.

What do you think of the new legislation in Virginia? Do you want other states to practice the same? Share your thoughts below.