Perspective! PHYSICAL ACTIVITY DURING ONLINE SCHOOLING

LAARNI P. DE GUZMAN

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, schools in the Philippines have shifted to online learning, which has led to concerns about students' physical activity levels. A recent study by the Philippine Sports Commission found that students who participated in online classes had significantly lower levels of physical activity compared to those who attended traditional face-to-face classes. The study, which involved over 2,000 students from different schools in the Philippines, found that students who participated in online classes spent an average of only 30 minutes per day on physical activity, compared to 60 minutes per day for those who attended traditional face-to-face classes. The study also found that students who participated in online classes were more likely to report feeling tired and stressed, and had lower levels of self-esteem. The findings of this study are concerning, as physical activity is essential for students' health and well-being. Physical activity helps to improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and boost mood. It also helps to improve cognitive function and academic performance. In order to address the concerns about students' physical activity levels during online classes, the Philippine Sports Commission has developed a number of recommendations which includes encouraging students to participate in physical activity for at least 60 minutes per day and providing students with opportunities to participate in physical activity throughout the day, such as by incorporating movement breaks into online classes and offering after-school physical activity programs. By following these recommendations, schools and parents can help to ensure that students are getting the physical activity they need during online classes. While online classes offer convenience and flexibility, they can also lead to a decrease in physical activity levels among students. According to a study conducted by the Department of Education (DepEd), only 30% of students get the recommended amount of physical activity per day while taking online classes. This is due to several factors, such as lack of time and space for exercise, and the sedentary nature of online learning. The lack of physical activity can have several negative consequences for students. Studies have shown that students who are physically active have better academic performance, improved mental health, and reduced risk of obesity and chronic diseases. To address this issue, DepEd has issued a memorandum requiring schools to incorporate physical activity into their online learning plans. Some schools have already started implementing innovative ways to encourage physical activity among students. For example, one school in Quezon City has partnered with a local fitness center to offer online fitness classes for students. Another school in Bulacan has developed a mobile app that tracks students' physical activity levels and provides them with personalized exercise recommendations. These initiatives are important steps towards ensuring that students get the physical activity they need to stay healthy and fit during online classes. However, more needs to be done to promote physical activity among students. Parents and guardians can also play a role by encouraging their children to get up and move around, and by providing them with opportunities for physical activity at home.

-oOoThe author is Senior High School Teacher III at San Simon High School San Jose, San Simon, Pampanga