Presenter: Hello! In this program we continue our series on the problems of Physical Education in modern schools. Our guest today is Mr. Flint, a skateboarding teacher who believes that skateboarding should be on the school curriculum. Good morning, Mr. Flint! Why do you think skateboarding should be taught at school?

Mr. Flint: Good morning! Well, first of all, we all know that skateboarders are physically fit, have strong muscles, strong bones, and unquestionable balance. When you skate, there isn’t a single muscle in your body that isn’t actively working. In addition to these purely physical advantages, look at the abstract benefits. We learn how to persevere; we have mutual respect for ourselves and other skaters. We have a huge social network, we spend hours outdoors and we are creative people who push our own limits to the max. We say, ‘Have you ever seen a lazy, obese skateboarder?’

Presenter: Well, listening to you, it does sound like it’s the perfect sport for developing both your body and your character. Yet, often people believe that skateboarding is a troublesome and meaningless activity, and there are many public places  — including schools  — where you can see signs saying ‘No skateboarding allowed!’

Mr. Flint: It’s true that people often don’t understand skateboarding as a sport. It is sometimes associated with gangs of angry youths hanging around town centers at night and therefore seen as an "underground" sport. It is a shame as there are some brilliant role models out there. In fact, speaking of bad behavior, get skateboards in schools and you will take the aggression out of the classroom and into the adrenaline rush of tricks! We need schools to consider skateboarding as a viable PE option. After all, the International Olympic Committee has approved Skateboarding as a new sport which will be part of the Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2020.

Presenter: Speaking of tricks, aren’t those dangerous? When I personally watch skateboarders going up and down the slopes and doing summersaults it takes my breath away.

Mr. Flint: Well, first of all, skateboarding teaches you responsibility, and as many skateboarders wear helmets, wrist guards and protection for knees and elbows, bad injuries are fortunately rare. Secondly, it doesn’t have to be advanced tricks right from the start. It usually takes months before you can consider doing any tricks at all. And finally, making it a class means teaching how to do it safely.

Presenter: Wouldn’t making it a class also mean that it would be less attractive and even boring?

Mr. Flint: I don’t think so. Skateboarding is always fun. Find me a town, city or village where kids don’t skateboard and I’ll be amazed. Besides, it’s good for anyone. Girls and boys can compete equally. It is also good for those who are not natural athletes or enjoy competitive contact sports. Every student can participate alone or in teams. It is especially helpful for energetic hyperactive kids who cannot concentrate  — have them skateboard between the classes and the problem is solved! We should embrace the subculture of skateboarding rather than push it away.

Presenter: What will it mean for schools financially, though? Isn’t the equipment expensive?

Mr. Flint: I have to admit that one of the main drawbacks to introducing a skateboarding program to a school is the cost. Skateboards can differ in price, depending on what they are made of  — wood, fiberglass, aluminum or mixed metals. Safety equipment can also be costly. But think about the results  — and you will see that it’s worth it! In fact, there are already a number of schools both in the US and around the world which have found money in their budgets to implement a skateboarding curriculum of some kind and believe me  — they don’t regret it!