The Impact of Physical Education Programs on Student Health Outcomes and Academic Performance: A Comprehensive Longitudinal Analysis

Physical education (PE) occupies a vital but often contested position within contemporary school curricula. This longitudinal mixed-methods study examined the impact of structured physical education programs on student health outcomes and academic performance across five urban secondary schools over an 18-month period (September 2021–June 2023). A purposive sample of 450 secondary school students (mean age = 14.2 years, SD = 1.8; 52.4% female) participated in the study. Health outcomes were assessed using the FITNESSGRAM® battery at three time points, while academic performance data were obtained from school administrative records. Quantitative analyses employed repeated measures ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression. Results revealed statistically significant improvements in aerobic capacity (35.5% increase; F(2,898) = 147.3, p < .001, η² = .247), BMI classification, and musculoskeletal flexibility. PE participation intensity demonstrated a significant positive correlation with academic GPA (r = .56, p < .001), with regression analyses identifying PE engagement as an independent predictor of academic performance (β = .31, p < .001) after controlling for socioeconomic status and prior achievement. Students from high-deprivation backgrounds exhibited the greatest relative health improvements. These findings provide robust empirical support for the educational and public health value of quality physical education programming.