Why should gym be mandatory?

Why is gym class mandatory in high school when art and music aren't?

• Here's the thing; when I was in elementary school, I HAD to take an art class, a gym class, and a music class. Now that I'm in high school, why are music and art programs are optional while gym class is still mandatory?! And don't give me any of that "Oh, it keeps kids from getting fat" and "It relieves stress" crap, because one; I'm not fat. And two; my gym class does the opposite, it STRESSES me out! I got this notice that I'm failing gym because I skipped swimming, and now I'm pissed off that I might have to take additional gym class in later high school years!

• Answer:

  It depends on what state or even school district you live in and its regulations. I live in Oklahoma and my daughters are Juniors and have never been forced to take a gym class. I don't think it should be mandatory in high school. I do think the younger schools should keep it mandatory though. Best of Luck!