Archer’s physical education program, Fitness for Life, is uniquely designed to introduce students to a wide variety of activities that are fitness related, based on individual and personal needs and geared specifically to young women.

In addition to traditional cardio-vascular work, weight training and introduction and honing of skills specific to particular sports, students are exposed to a variety of dance styles as well as yoga and Pilates training. Students study dance technique and principles of choreography in an environment that stresses physical creative expression. Archer’s yoga and Pilates studios provide intimate atmospheres for students to master the basics of both practices and take advantage of their physical and emotional benefits.

Unlike Middle School Fitness for Life, the Upper School program stresses individual, rather than team, activities. At all levels, the program is specifically designed to teach young women a commitment to fitness as an important part of their lifestyle.

The Fitness for Life curriculum is an important complement to the Athletic Program. Not only is it one of the only physical education programs in Southern California that offers such a wide variety of fitness-related activities and programs geared specifically to young women, but student-athletes reap great benefits from the skills and lessons learned in Fitness for Life: the varsity soccer player who discovered a passion for jazz dance; the volleyball player who uses relaxation techniques learned in yoga to calm herself and prepare for intense competition; the track and field athlete who has changed her eating habits because of the connections she learned exist between nutrition and physical performance. The Fitness for Life curriculum develops the whole student and encourages her to have a balanced, healthy lifestyle - physically, emotionally, psychologically and socially.

It is understood that athletics at the high school level are very demanding. This is particularly true of activities that require traveling for all games and practices. It is for this reason that the Fitness for Life Department allows athletes to obtain an exemption from Fitness class during a season of play. This gives time for student athletes to study, catch up on work or meet with teachers.