The Department of Physical Education would like to take this opportunity to announce its new motto: “Eight at State.”

So what does that mean? We are encouraging each student at N.C. State to take eight credits of physical education from our 100 or 200-level activity courses before graduation.

Currently, students are required to take just two credits of physical education to graduate. The number of other colleges and universities that require physical education are dwindling, a trend that is troubling for a nation that needs to promote more physical education, not less. Over 90 percent of all universities required physical education classes prior to 1970; currently, that number is closer to 60 percent. The University remains a leader in health and fitness instruction by requiring two credits of physical education for graduation.

We are uniquely qualified to lead this effort based on our department’s nationally recognized Basic Instruction Program (BIP) that has existed since 1923. We not only want to rise above other universities in academics, but also in physical fitness. The motto, “Eight at State,” will raise the awareness of the importance of regular exercise and lifelong physical fitness.

Reports indicate that roughly half of all college students do not get regular physical activity. We hope to motivate and encourage students at the University to go beyond what’s required and make a commitment to physical fitness.

Research has long supported the physical benefits of exercise. Among them are: decreased risk of developing heart disease, diabetes and obesity. Other benefits include: improved cardiovascular endurance, muscle endurance, muscles strength and flexibility. Additionally, research suggests that regular exercise can decrease stress, improve self-concept, provide an outlet for socializing and decrease symptoms of depression. More recently, exercise has been shown to not only give you a “six-pack,” but to help you improve your grades! That’s right, regular exercise can also improve brain function.

When the proper training guidelines are followed, exercise: causes an increase in the number of capillaries in the brain; improves cognitive function 1 to 3 hours post exercise; effects the frontal and prefrontal lobes of the brain; elicits positive effects on the ability to schedule, plan, monitor self-behaviors and coordinate tasks; and releases endorphins (a “runners’ high”).

These benefits are associated with long-term exercise, so it’s important to continue a fitness-training program not just for two semesters, but also for a lifetime. Use it or lose it!

As you begin to think about your spring 2010 schedule, make a commitment to your mind, body and spirit and sign up for a physical education class. You may want to take a physical education class right before your most academically challenging class of the day. On the other hand, if you have a particularly stressful schedule, you may want a physical education class at the end of your day to help you unwind.

Choose an activity that you really enjoy. The Department of Physical Education offers 68 different activity courses ranging from the required physical education 100-level course to Pilates, kayaking and horseback riding. Our web site has more details (http://www.ncsu.edu/pe/).

Here’s our challenge to you: be academically fit, and physically fit when you leave the University!