Emma Beddington is spot-on (There are two kinds of people: those who enjoyed school PE lessons – and the rest of us, 27 April). PE at school in the 1980s was a mix of sadism and masochism, with the majority forced to endure the cold, rain and physical discomfort. Occasionally, the motivation was glory for the school in the sport of the season, but primarily it was a timetable-filler. While a few egos were boosted, for most it was an ordeal. How different the consequences might have been if framed in terms of choice and physical health.
Richard Madge
Bexhill on Sea, East Sussex
• I am now 75 years old and spent my formative years as a convent girl. My horror of the gym is as strong as ever. Outdoor sports were just about tolerable, but the gym classes were a nightmare: unsuccessfully climbing ropes, crashing into the horse while those more nimble flew over the top. However, I have successfully navigated a healthy life with plenty of outdoor exercise and, despite pressure from the younger generation, retain absolutely zero desire to frequent the gym in my dotage.
Fanny Jones
Twineham, West Sussex
