Should Universities Have Fitness Class Requirements?

Pamela Kufahl December 1st, 2009

When I read about Lincoln University’s requirement that students with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher must take a fitness course, I initially thought this was a good idea. However, upon thinking about the situation a bit further, I’m not sure that singling out these students is such a good idea. First of all, the accuracy of the BMI in determining who is actually at an unhealthy weight has been questioned by some, so the determinant on who must take the class might be flawed. I did read, however, that they also go by waist circumference, too. Still, not everyone with an “acceptable” BMI or waist circumference is necessarily healthy. I knew plenty of thin college students who lived off pizza, Ramen noodles and beer when I was in college. No leafy greens or fruits–and certainly no exercise unless you think partying qualifies as exercise.

I understand that the university has limited funding for this course, so they are trying to reach out to the students at greatest risk, and the easiest way to determine that is by weight and waist measurements. However, before more universities start implementing this program, I’d suggest that they consider not singling out a particular group but instead making it a required class for all freshmen. It would do some students–both thin and heavy–some good to have someone walk them over to the student rec center and introduce them to a healthier lifestyle.

What do you think? Is this policy a good idea?

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2 Comments to “Should Universities Have Fitness Class Requirements?”

Jill Urkoski Says:

December 1st, 2009 at 6:15 pm

I agree with Pamela that there should be a required fitness/wellness class for all students at Universities. When I was at the University of Nebraska- Lincoln there was a required class called Healthy Lifestyles. It was a 1 hour lecture 3 times per week with a 30 minute lab. The lecture covered everything from fitness, cardiovascular diseases, STIs and drugs and alcohol. The lab was one-on-one with a lab TA that assisted each student in developing a fitness program and then worked with them on a behavior modification project as well. The behavior modification project could be anything from quitting smoking to increasing daily fruits and vegetables. I really think this class was instrumental in giving students the education and guidance to make healthy choice for their lives. Even if they maybe didn’t implement them when in college at least they had the knowledge to take with them.
Kenneth Meyer Says:

December 2nd, 2009 at 3:40 am

The BMI has not just been questioned, it has been proven ridiculously outdated and inaccurate. Body composition testing with an accompanying cardiorespiratory endurance assesment is where it’s at. This requirement should be for all students. This would eliminate all discrimination issues. Teaching at the college level is always eye opening, There is nothing the students need more than required health and fitness classes because they will not do it on there own until it is too late. Furthermore this type of program should be started in the first grade not college. I see this need everyday…every semester.