Wang Fangwei IN many Chinese schools, there’s almost an unwritten rule to cancel physical education (PE) classes as exams approach. However, I strongly disagree with this approach. Good grades matter, but so does students’ health. After all, a healthy body gives students the energy they need to focus and learn better. First, in many Chinese schools, students live on campus and have little free time. Fun activities like playing games or listening to music are often limited, so PE classes become one of the most important ways they can truly relax and blow off steam. That is why it is such a big deal when PE classes are canceled. Students lose their main way to deal with stress. Furthermore, without regular exercise, students become less fit and more tired. That does not help them; it actually makes it harder for students to concentrate in class and enjoy life. In contrast, when students do have PE, the class gives them more energy and helps them focus better in other classes. A notable example is when Naperville High School in Chicago, the U.S., tried putting PE first thing in the morning, which they call “Zero Hour PE.” The 19,000 students who participated not only became healthier, but also increased their reading scores by 17% and did really well on their exams. Thus, exercise clearly helps both students’ bodies and grades. In conclusion, it is obvious that PE is more than a mere break from class; it is something students really need. It helps them reduce stress, get fit, and even do better in other subjects. That is why it is time for schools to stop cutting PE lessons and start taking them seriously. Students need that time to move around, recharge, and keep their minds and bodies in good shape. | 