Exploring MTHS’s Dynamic Physical Education Electives

By: Adith Bondugula

At Monroe Township High School, walking laps around the gym and playing volleyball with your friends is not the only thing you can do. Physical education at MTHS is an opportunity to take classes tailored toward your interests, learn creative movement, and even get stronger if you have a passion for building muscle or are an athlete aspiring to get better at your sport. Whether you want to go the extra mile in the weight room, have fun with friends learning dance, or have the opportunity to inform classmates about various health-related topics, MTHS has many electives that allow students to achieve their goals and interests more than just a normal gym class.

Strength and Conditioning: For the Future Athlete (or Fitness Enthusiast!)

For people who have an interest in hypertrophy and muscle building, Strength and Conditioning I and II might be great physical education electives to take. These classes are perfect for kids who are looking to get more fit physically while also learning about the different techniques to lift heavy weights, understanding the process of setting achievable goals, and how to make a proper fitness program that correlates to your goals. Strength and Conditioning I goes more in-depth on the basics, such as what to know to safely lift weights, the structure and function of the cardiovascular system, and the nutritional aspects of exercise and training. Strength and Conditioning II takes it to the next step by teaching kids to make workouts and plans that are customized for themselves and other students in the class. 

This class isn’t all just about working out every single day. It’s about learning and understanding information about one’s health that can be used even after highschool. Also, one important benefit is if you play sports just for fun or competitively, this class can give you extra time to work on your body and muscles outside the sports field. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t like the feeling of being a stronger person and knowing more about the different aspects of working out?

Rhythmic Movement: Where Fitness Meets Fun

For students who are looking for movement with an added twist of various styles, Rhythmic Movement focuses on dance, yoga, Zumba, and even ballet barre. Whether you are into the structured elegance of pilates or just want to let loose with dance, this class is one that helps workouts be more fun and amusing for students.

This class is not only just fun and games as many may think. This class provides a great workout for those taking it by improving flexibility, coordination, and endurance. Also, it introduces students to interests, activities, and hobbies they can continue outside of the classroom, making it a great choice for anyone who is trying to start a new fitness hobby they can do for the rest of their life. 

Teen PEP: The Leaders of Tomorrow

Ever wanted to teach your fellow peers how to help make a difference? Teen PEP is more than just a class, it’s a responsibility! This class is only for seniors and trains students to be peer educators, leading workshops on topics like healthy relationships, substance abuse prevention, and mental health awareness. Students have to apply by March 20th of their Junior year in order to be eligible to get into the program. Some benefits of taking this class are it builds leadership, confidence, and can help students be better public speakers. 

Teen Pep students get the unique opportunity to learn about various health related topics while teaching students at the same time. They initiate discussions, plan interactive activities, and become role models that are a positive influence on underclassmen. This program is quite hard to get into, requiring students to submit a resume, get recommendations from their teachers, and do well in an interview. For those who do make it into the program, it’s an amazing experience that fosters lifelong leadership skills and information about health-related topics that you could use for a lifetime.

Why These Electives Matter

Many students only take gym class to fulfill their graduation requirements, but many forget they could do something they enjoy more than just a normal gym class that better fits their interests. It’s about exploring a passion, having more fun doing what you're interested in, and becoming the healthiest version that you can be. Whether you are looking to improve your athletic performance, have fun with friends learning dance, or become a voice for positive change, MTHS has a PE elective that fits your goals.

So, when it comes time to pick your schedule, think about trying something new. Step into the weight room, onto the dance floor, or in front of your peers as a leader. No matter what you choose, one thing is for sure, at MTHS, gym class is anything but ordinary.