History of Physical Education in the U.S.

Many students failed to gain interest in physical education classes because those who were not the fastest or strongest often failed. From self-esteem issues to exclusion based on groups of athletic-types versus non-athletic types, such approaches fostered a resentment of physical education programs among many students and adults with scars from being humiliated in gym class. The focus on athletic skills left out many students. Many of the non-athletic children are now legislators and school board members who underestimate the value of physical education. During the late 20th century, tighter budgets and a focus on technology and academics witnessed a decline in physical education in the curricula of many middle and high schools in the U.S. According to one Surgeon GeneralÆs repo

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dated more physical education for public school children and many other states are introducing similar bills. So, too, innovative curriculum are being designed by physical education professionals in cooperation with health professionals to provide methods aimed at focusing on non-competitive aspects of physical activity. TodayÆs focus is much more aimed at teaching life skills aimed at health and well being and adopts a broader approach to both philosophy and methodology. As Zeigler (2003) maintains, ôThe embodied mind challenges traditional Western philosophy that has typically held a position largely ignoring the wholeness of the human bodyö (3). TodayÆs physical education professionals are designing and implementing curricula and methodologies that are in stark contrast to those of previous decades in physical education. One of these is known as the ôNew P.E.ö, developed by physical education instructor Phil Lawler. The New P.E. is a substitute for the old Darwinian view of gym class and methodologies. Lawler realized that his least able athletes still put out as much effort as the best athletes in traditional activities. He redesigned his curricula to include a focus on cardiovascular performance instead of competitive
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Approximate Word count = 1210
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page)

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