39

— Percent of four-year colleges and universities in the U.S. that require physical education classes.

The proportion represents a dramatic drop since the 1920s, when nearly all college students were required to complete an exercise class, according to scientists at Oregon State University, who published their findings in the journal Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport. The decline comes as research continues to support the benefits of regular physical activity for combating obesity and improving cognitive function.

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