Why is exercise and good hygiene important for humans? - Teacher notes

Exercise and good hygiene are fundamental components of maintaining a healthy lifestyle for humans. The importance of these practices is often introduced to pupils through engaging educational resources, such as BBC Bitesize, which provides a foundation for understanding the essentials of staying healthy. Group discussions in classrooms encourage students to list and reflect on the crucial activities they need to undertake to preserve their health, including identifying barriers that might prevent them from exercising more, and to create visual aids that reinforce the concepts they learn.

Historically, human survival depended on physical activity, such as running to hunt and evade predators, but modern lifestyles have led to a significant decrease in our daily exercise, resulting in lower overall fitness levels. Regular exercise is vital as it contributes to building stamina, speed, and strength, which are not only beneficial for athletes but also necessary for everyday tasks. Pupils are prompted to consider their own fitness routines and to keep a record of their weekly exercise to become more aware of their physical activity levels. Alongside exercise, hygiene is another key aspect of health, with online resources available to explain its importance. Pupils are encouraged to examine their personal hygiene habits and understand how maintaining cleanliness is integral to preventing illness and promoting overall well-being.