Through the twenty-first century, more people are starting to become obese, and the rate continues to rise. According to the World Health Organization, over 340 million kids and teens were overweight or obese in 2016, and the worldwide obesity rate has tripled since 1975. This is not only caused by the amount of unhealthy foods that people are eating, but also by the increased use of technology. Many people, especially kids and teens, spend too much time on electronics to exercise. However, this problem can be solved with participation in sports and physical exercise.

Why is physical exercise so important? The answer is simple; participation in physical activities will teach people how to stay fit, which will lead to them having better futures. According to the World Health Organization, kids and teens should be getting an hour of exercise each day, and are recommended to get more. By exercising on a daily basis, people are meeting the suggested amount of time spent for exercise and are keeping themselves healthier. Piper Guyton (9) agrees with this and says “participation in physical activity will teach people how to stay healthier and how to avoid becoming obese.”

Physical exercise not only promotes health, but also helps people develop important life skills. For example, team games or activities that are taught at schools’ physical education can teach students how to work with others. This life skill can be applied to the student’s future profession, or even in their classes. Physical activities can also decrease stress or anxiety. This is because one’s mind is developing concentration and vigilance while participating in physical activities, which will improve the state of one’s mind.

Although there are many benefits to physical exercise, some people argue that it takes time away from academics and other activities. This is true because physical education is a required class at most schools, and takes up a student’s class period that could be used for a  more beneficial elective. Additionally, sports both in and out of school could cause students to miss class due to scheduling conflicts. Missing classes may result in students having to make up work done in class, but this always varies on how long the student is absent.

Physical activity is probably the most helpful thing people can do to keep themselves healthy and fit. Its benefits will extend throughout one’s lifetime, whether it be an important life skill or maintaining healthy body conditions. Physical exercise is the right path to take on the way to reducing worldwide obesity and improving global health.