More states requiring PE, but amount varies

By MARY CLARE JALONICK Associated Press Writer

WASHINGTON (AP) - More states are requiring physical education for elementary, middle and high school students, though few require kids to exercise for a specific amount of time.

A report released Tuesday by the American Heart Association and the National Association for Sport and Physical Education says exercise for schoolchildren is also threatened by a rising number of waivers and exemptions from PE in school districts around the country.

Nancy Brown, CEO of the heart association, says the group is pleased that more states are requiring physical education but is also concerned that the requirements don't have more teeth.

Brown says she hopes an increased national focus on health and nutrition will push schools to require more time in the gym with a qualified instructor.