PE to be introduced in Norwegian schools

Norwegian health organisations are concerned over the state of public health and demand at least one hour of physical education (PE) a day in Norwegian schools. Our goal is that all children and young people shall be offered one hour of physical activity each day they spend at school. The school is an important arena, because here all participate regardless of social background. And good habits learned at an early age will stay with you as you go on in life, says President of the Norwegian Medical Association, Hege Gjessing.

She also speaks on behalf of the Cancer Society, the National Association for Public Health, the Physioterapy Association and the Norwegian Sports Association. They are all joining forces with a wish to make Norwegian children and youth more active.

The five associations are appealing to the politicians who are drawing up the guideliness for schools, and ask for action.

The National Association for Public Health points to the fact that physical activity prevents among other things over-weight, diabetes, some types of cancer and cardiovascular diseases.