China’s Schools Mandate More Physical Activity for Students to Combat Obesity and Myopia
Introduction
In an effort to address rising concerns over obesity and myopia among school children, China has implemented a mandatory two hours of daily sports and physical activity in elementary and middle schools. This initiative is part of a broader push by the government to promote physical fitness and overall health in the younger generation.
Mandated Physical Activity
Starting at the beginning of the second semester, several regions in China have mandated two hours of sports and exercise in elementary and middle schools each day. In Beijing, the capital city, schools are required to provide one hour of physical education per day and supplement it with extracurricular physical activities to meet the daily requirement.
Extended Recess Breaks
To further encourage physical activity, the government has extended recess breaks between classes from 10 to 15 minutes. This extended break time allows children to engage in more outdoor play, which provides them with fresh air and sunlight.
Tackling Myopia and Obesity
The primary motivation behind this initiative is to combat the high prevalence of myopia and obesity among Chinese children. Over a third of primary school students in China suffer from nearsightedness, and an estimated 10% of children between the ages of 7 and 18 are overweight or obese. The government aims to reduce these numbers by promoting physical activity.
Previous Policy Shifts
In 2021, the Ministry of Education attempted to incorporate more physical activity into the curriculum by focusing on teaching students "health knowledge, basic exercises, and specialized skills." However, the current policy shift suggests a departure from this approach.
Strict Monitoring and Sweat-Inducing Exercise
According to China’s state broadcaster, the government is emphasizing the need for strict monitoring of physical activity and the elimination of "physical education without sweat." Schools are expected to provide activities such as ball games and rope skipping.
Winter Sports Promotion
In northern regions like Beijing, where winter sports are gaining popularity, schools are also encouraged to incorporate winter sports into their physical activity programs. China has been actively promoting winter tourism and skiing in recent years.
Evaluation and Impact
The effectiveness of the new policy remains to be evaluated. However, it is expected to significantly increase the physical activity levels of Chinese students, which could potentially lead to reductions in myopia and obesity rates.
Conclusion
China’s mandatory physical activity policy reflects the government’s growing concern over the health of its youth. By implementing two hours of daily sports and increasing recess breaks, the government aims to promote physical fitness, reduce myopia and obesity, and foster a healthier future for its children. The effectiveness of this initiative will be closely monitored, and future adjustments may be made to optimize its impact.
