How to Become a P.E. Teacher

Students run on a basketball court in PE class

Physical Education teachers are commonly referred to as PE teachers, P.E. teachers, or gym teachers. PE teachers are skilled and educated in physical education and athletic training. Gym teachers are knowledgeable about the human body and a wide variety of sports including basketball, gymnastics, football, baseball, tennis and aerobics.

Qualities of a Physical Education Teacher

Gym teachers are usually enthusiastic, physically fit, patient and excellent communicators. They positively influence their students both physically and mentally. These teachers must be able to prepare lessons while maintaining students' physical needs, apprehensions and challenges in mind.

These teachers have the capacity motivate students to perform physical activities while making them competitive and cooperative at the same time.

Gym Teacher Benefits

Becoming a PE teacher comes with many benefits including health, retirement and a great schedule. In regards to career growth, as a teacher gains experience, they may advance to department administration positions such as athletic directors or physical education directors. In addition, unlike many other teachers, gym teachers rarely have to grade homework on their time off.