The Historical Development of Physical Education

Physical education began in ancient Greece and made its way around the world, finally making its way into the United States by the mid-19th century.The need to train soldiers for battle spurred the beginnings of physical education programs. Over time, physical education classes were introduced, which mainly included courses for girls. Physical education ultimately developed into complex programs to include courses in physical development, as well as health-related topics for all students.

History

Ancient Greece engaged in intense warfare and competitive activities. The introduction of physical education during that time fulfilled the need to train soldiers and athletes. Training began at age seven and remained intense for the remainder of the young soldiers life. Athletes trained for activities such as footraces, boxing, chariot races, and javelin throwing. Field and Track events trained soldiers for strength and endurance.The beginning of formal physical education began in England during the 19th century in an effort to encourage beauty and posture for English women.

Colleges in the United States soon followed and offered a variety of courses in physical education. As education in the United States progressed, the need to educate students about caring for their bodies as well as their minds became more important. Schools in the United States began offering classes in gymnastics, exercise, and dance. California became the first state to require daily exercise in public schools. More states soon followed as schools continued to recognize that healthier bodies contributed to more effective learning experiences.

Identification

The original components of physical education programs consisted of mostly gymnastics for girls and more rigorous activities for boys. Over time the need to educate all students about nutrition and the importance of physical activity led to the inclusion of components such as cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, endurance, flexibility, and body composition. Components for physical education programs vary depending on each states' education standards. Good programs include instruction in team sports, individual sports, aerobic activities, and health education.

Development

Ancient Greek culture depended upon preparing its young men for war. Training for battle was not an option, but a requirement. Ancient physical education programs concentrated solely on activities that trained soldiers to endure the evils of battle. English educators later realized the need to teach girls to present themselves properly in society. The first classes taught girls proper posture and etiquette. Only boys enjoyed the more rigorous activities that prepared them for various sporting events. Ultimately, as the need to educate all students about all aspects of human health became the norm, colleges and schools in the United States began developing programs to include courses in nutrition, disease prevention, physical strength, and endurance.

Time Frame

776BC-First ancient Olympiad held in ancient Greece

1823-English schools began first Calisthenics class for girls.

1861-The Normal Institute for Physical Education founded in Boston

1866-California became the first state to require physical education classes in schools.

1891-Stanford University established the first Physical Education/Health undergraduate curricula.

1910-Introduction of The Four Phases of the Physical Education Process

1956-President Eisenhower established the President's Council on Youth Fitness through an Executive Order.

2010-Pennsylvania Cyber Teacher began educating students about physical education through Cyber Schools.

Significance

The significance of physical education no longer concentrates solely on training soldiers for battle and ancient athletes for victories. A program once thought to only hold value for training girls for proper etiquette continues to develop into a complex curriculum meant to include various components that remain important in overall well-being. The realization that healthier bodies make healthier minds will forever shape the significance of Physical Education in both private and public school curricula.