It is generally believed that students studying in private schools, mostly from financially well-off families, are healthier than those in government schools, where children from economically weaker backgrounds study. However, a surprising revelation has emerged from a recent survey conducted by a private organization.
The survey found that students from government schools are healthier than private school students on certain health parameters. Moreover, girls were found to be healthier than boys. The survey was conducted among 1,16,650 students aged 7 to 17 years across 85 regions in the country.
Government School Students Ahead in Fitness
The survey conducted by Sportz Village found that students studying in government schools performed better than private school students on several health parameters. According to the survey:
- Body Mass Index (BMI): 61.64% of government school students had a healthy BMI compared to private school students.
- Lower Body Strength: 48% of government school students showed better lower body strength.
- Aerobic Capacity: 37% of government school students performed better.
- Anaerobic Capacity: 75% of government school students outperformed private school students.
- Body Flexibility: 75% of government school students had better flexibility.
However, private school students performed better in upper body strength (47%) and abdominal strength (87%). Overall, the survey concluded that government school students have better fitness levels than private school students.
Parminder Gill, Co-founder of Sportz Village, said, “It is encouraging to see better fitness levels among government school students. This improvement has long-term benefits, and CSR funds should be encouraged to promote this progress further.”
Girls Healthier Than Boys
The survey also revealed that girls were healthier than boys. Around 62.23% of girls had normal BMI, compared to 57.09% of boys. Girls also outperformed boys in flexibility, abdominal strength, upper body strength, and anaerobic capacity. However, boys showed better results in lower body strength and aerobic capacity.
Children love sports, but often games take a back seat due to academic pressure. The survey highlights the importance of integrating sports and physical education into the curriculum to improve children’s overall health.
