Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to determine if Ontario's health and physical
education curriculum contributes sufficiently to ensure the health of our children and
young adults. To determine the curriculum effect, the health risk profile of Niagara
Region's grade 9 students was compared to Canada's adolescent population. All subjects
completed a "Heart Health Lifestyle" survey and were measured for height, weight,
percent body fat, blood pressure, and total cholesterol and performed the 20-metre shuttle
run test as part of their physical and health education classes. The Niagara Region grade 9
population had a healthy risk profile. Aerobic power was inversely related, and
cholesterol levels were positively associated to body mass index and percent body fat in
the whole group analysis. These results indicate that physical education can offer unique
and essential aspects allowing individuals a means to learn and control body movements
and keep physically fit while providing protection against modern disease. Ontario's
health and physical education curriculum does contribute to the health of our children and
adolescents; however, there is a need to implement a stronger mandate for daily vigorous
physical activity.
