The Decade We Didn't Take Advantage of
What happened after 2013 and why is 2025 the last moment to stop the catastrophe?
In 2013, Le Figaro published an article that, from today's perspective, could be considered prescient. It was based on the results of a global meta-analysis conducted by a team of researchers from the University of South Australia, led by Grant Tomkinson. The analysis included data from 50 studies conducted between 1964 and 2010, covering over 25 million children and adolescents from 28 countries – mostly developed ones.
Decrease in aerobic capacity
The conclusions of this analysis were clear: children in 2013 had, on average, 15% lower aerobic capacity than their parents at the same age. This was measured primarily through running tests and VO₂ max. Cardiovascular capacity has declined consistently since the 1970s, by about 5% per decade.
But an even greater threat lies in the decline of muscle strength. Data from Europe and OECD countries indicate that children's strength has declined by as much as 30–40% over two generations.
Finnish, British and German studies show that children today perform dramatically worse in simple strength tests – such as hanging from a bar, push-ups, grip strength and jumping.
Decrease in muscle strength - even more serious
The loss of muscle mass, accompanied by an increase in fat, becomes the norm in children aged 10–12.
Professor François Carré, a sports cardiologist at the University of Rennes-I, warned:
"We must act. If nothing changes, our generation—or the one that comes after us—will have a shorter lifespan than the last."
2025: We have proof they were right. And that no one listened to them.
Today, more than a decade later, not only have we failed to fix the situation—it has worsened. The data is merciless, and the reality we see in school hallways and doctor's offices speaks volumes: we are on the brink of a generational health catastrophe.
Why is it even worse than in 2013?
In 2013, televisions and computers dominated. Today, every child has a smartphone, access to TikTok, YouTube, games, and social media.
Time spent inactive has increased dramatically, especially between the ages of 10 and 16 – a crucial age for physical development.
Explosion of screens
COVID-19 pandemic
School closures, lack of physical education, isolation, depression—the pandemic has left a lasting mark. WHO and UNICEF are clear: children today are weaker, fatter, more isolated, and more susceptible to depression than ever before.
In many countries – including Poland – physical education classes are marginalized. The infrastructure is outdated, teachers are discouraged, and students are massively "excused."
The system has stopped working.
The crisis of physical education
The disappearance of movement culture
A lifestyle that was alarming in 2013 has now become the norm. Seven-year-olds spend 6–8 hours a day in front of screens. In many families, physical activity is nonexistent—neither as a daily practice nor as a value.
Physiological alarm: time cannot be turned back
The development of the cardiorespiratory system and muscular strength ends around the age of 18–20. This means that a child who does not build endurance and strength by this age will never reach their biological potential.
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students who cannot perform the simplest exercises,
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teenagers without muscle mass, with posture defects and chronic fatigue,
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cases of juvenile sarcopenia – i.e. muscle wasting before adulthood.
Today we observe:
New direction: A LESSON OF STRENGTH AND HEALTH, not just another PE lesson
Note: The School Dream Gym is not PE 2.0.
This is a completely new form of school activities – a lesson in strength and health.
Why is this so important?
Because physical education, while necessary, no longer addresses the challenges of the 21st century. It doesn't build strength, develop muscle mass, or shape habits that protect against obesity, depression, or lifestyle diseases.
How is strength and health class different from PE?
PE lesson
Mostly team games.
Based on performance assessment.
Often non-individualized.
Conducted in outdated rooms.
For the chosen ones (often only boys).
A Lesson in Strength and Health (SSM)
Strength, functional and corrective training.
Focused on progression, health and well-being.
Adapted to level, age, needs.
It takes place in a modern, attractive space.
For all – equal opportunities for every group.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ
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1. Why not reform PE, but create a new lesson?
Because the PE system hasn't changed for years—and it doesn't work. A new lesson means a fresh start, new goals, and new opportunities.
FAQ
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2. Aren't kids too young for the gym?
It's not about "packing muscle," but about safe, controlled strength development. The WHO and ACSM recommend strength training from age 7 onward—provided it's done well.
FAQ
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3. Does everyone need such a lesson?
Yes. Muscle strength protects not only against injury but also against depression, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and poor concentration.
FAQ
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4. Is this possible at my school?
Yes. Many schools are already piloting the concept of gyms and "strength and health lessons" in a cross-class or cross-generational model.
School Dream Gym – a concrete response to a concrete crisis
This is a space that can operate twice a week, for 45 minutes, for each grade 4–8.
These classes are conducted by trained teachers, using a methodology adapted to the age and needs of the children.
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building strength and posture,
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preventive health care,
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health and emotional education,
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and intergenerational integration.
This is space:
We won't lose another decade
50 years – that is how long it takes for children and adolescents to physically regress,
15% – this is how much we lost in aerobic capacity,
30–40% – this is how much the muscle strength of children decreased over two generations,
10 years – that's how much we've wasted since the last warning.
This document is not just another report to file away.
This is a plan of action. And the lessons of strength and health are its foundation.
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If you are a principal, consider introducing strength and health classes at your school.
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If you are a teacher – learn the methodology and become a change leader.
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If you are a parent, ask your child at school about the future of his or her activities.
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If you are a local government official, support the pilot of such a lesson in your municipality.
What can you do today?
