There are many benefits students receive from high school physical education classes that contribute to students becoming responsible adults who are aware of the importance of a healthy lifestyle. High school students retain a higher level of knowledge related to overall health that help them make educated decisions regarding their own health, safety and well-being. Regular Fitness Activity Physical fitness is an important component to leading a healthy lifestyle. The inclusion of regular fitness activity helps students maintain fitness, develop muscular strength and improve cardiovascular health. A regular fitness activity improves the absorption of nutrients by the body, improves digestive processes and increases physiological processes. Builds Self-Confidence The participation in physical education in high school provides a positive influence on a student's personality, character and self-esteem. In addition, the team-building process enhances communication skills, and the skills required to get along and cooperate with students of varying ethnic backgrounds and personalities. Develops Motor Skills Physical education in high school is essential to the development of motor skills and the enhancement of reflexes. Hand-eye coordination is improved, as well as good body movements, which helps in the development of a healthy body posture. Health and Nutrition Physical education teaches students the importance of physical health. High school is an age where students misinterpret the meaning of "overweight" and eating disorders prevail. Physical health and education informs students on sound eating practices and the essential guidelines for nutrition. Relieves Stress High school students have substantial amounts of stress due to curriculum, homework, families and peer pressures. Involvement in sports, recreational activities or other forms of physical fitness offer a method of stress relief.
We have a newly constructed softball field just steps away from the school, complete with AstroTurf, bleachers, and its own scoreboard. During the Fall and Spring months, the field serves as an outdoor gym space for various Physical Education classes.
We also have a newly renovated baseball/soccer field with a track and handball courts. The field also sports newly placed AstroTurf, bleachers, and a beautiful view of the city. All of this is only a few short blocks away from the school.
We are only a handful of NYC public schools that have an active pool on premises. Students can take swimming in order to earn a Physical Education elective. The pool is also used for various tournaments throughout the year, as well as our "Learn to Swim" program, where children from the surrounding area are invited to the pool to learn how to swim.
We have 6 gyms: The two-floor main gym has as upstairs track, as well as space downstairs for basketball, volleyball, and various other sports-related activities. The school also has a weight room, aerobics room, wrestling room, as well as two smaller gymnasiums.
We have three outdoor tennis courts, which are in constant use during the fall and spring seasons. The courts accommodate not only the gym classes, but also our Tennis Boys Varsity and Tennis Girls Varsity students a chance to hone their game skills on premises.