At Westhill High school, freshmen and sophomores have to do crunches, push-ups and an intensive mile according to age and gender. However, failing or passing the exam doesn’t count towards your grade in physical education classes. This is disappointing, because in my opinion this means that these tests are essentially meaningless. It’s also embarrassing for kids who can’t do things that other students can do.
We shouldn’t force students to take these fitness tests if they doesn’t count toward final grades. When students were asked if the fitness test is necessary, senior Keity Suarez said, “No, because it doesn’t serve a purpose, and if you fail it makes people feel bad about themselves. I know from experience that it causes anxiety and the feeling of knowing someone’s better than you is heartbreaking.”
The fitness test forces people to engage in activities that make them uncomfortable and I think that is very wrong because some people can’t do the things that are expected. Imagine doing a sit-up in front of all your peers, knowing very well that you can’t do one.
Senior William Padilla said, “It’s a waste of time. They don’t use the results for any real purpose. Nothing impacts our grades.” Honestly, we can do so many other things that can also be related to gym. We could initiate some team building games that build class spirit.
If they’re not issuing a grade for our hard work running the mile, they should at least put one in for team building, which is something everyone can be involved in. Why take gym if we are not getting graded for something we work so hard to achieve in?
In the end, I feel that we shouldn’t have the fitness test because it simply embarrasses students, and does not impact our performance in the class. I believe we should look to find an alternative.
