How Exercise May Be The ‘Most Potent Medical Intervention Ever Known'
Ask students: What animals were included in the study to learn about the benefits of exercise? What was one of the differences in the study seen in the male and female rats?
It's been well-known for many decades that exercise benefits our health. However, a new scientific consortium reveals new insights into how profound exercise can be for the human body. William Brangham discussed more with Euan Ashley, a professor of cardiovascular medicine and genetics at Stanford University and the newly named chair of its medicine department.
View the transcript of the story.
Discussion Questions
- Who is Dr. Euan Ashley?
- Why does Dr. Ashely refer to exercise as "the single most potent medical intervention ever known"?
- What animals were included in the study to learn about the benefits of exercise?
- What was one of the differences in the study seen in the male and female rats?
- How long has Western medical science known that exercise is critical to overall health?
Focus Questions
- Dr. Ashley said, "..any movement is better than none." What suggestions does he give for simple exercise movements that make a real difference? Which suggestions do you see yourself being likely to do? Do you have additional suggestions that have worked for you or people you know? Consider sharing them with your class.
- Media literacy: What additional questions would you have asked Dr. Ashley about the importance of exercise?
Extension Activity
Physical education is required in most American high schools, but teenagers with physical and developmental disabilities may face greater restrictions on how they can get active. Learn how schools in Florida’s Miami-Dade County are adapting activities like kayaking, sailing, and golfing for more children.
Directions: Find out how your school provides support in P.E. classes for students with physical and developmental disabilities. Invite your physical education department chair, principal, or superintendent to your class to talk with them more about this topic. Work together and be sure to involve students with physical or developmental disabilities in coming up with solutions.
If there aren't any supports or opportunities available, how can you start the conversation with your school's leaders? Perhaps find out when the next school board meeting is and bring up your questions there. Members will be impressed by your preparation, interest, and empathy.
Republished with permission from PBS NewsHour Classroom.
PBS News Hour Classroom helps teachers and students identify the who, what, where and why-it-matters of the major national and international news stories. The site combines the best of News Hour's reliable, trustworthy news program with lesson plans developed specifically for... See More
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