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Research Profile: Physical Education

blntmaker

on July 6, 2007

In the United States, physical education (or P.E.) is implemented into all levels of education curriculum for two main reasons: to foster cooperative and teamwork skills by way of athletic activities and to raise and instill health/fitness consciousness in students while they are young. In part, the basic tenets of fitness application involve areas of agility and stamina, development of motor skills, strength and conditioning, cardiovascular exercise, and kinesthetics.

In physical education, some of the athletics activities students are exposed to include: conditioning activities, individual/dual sports, team sports, gymnastics, spirit and dance teams. All activities are taught or coached by teachers with a valid teaching credential in health or physical education or a volunteer with qualifying skills in that particular activity.

In order to participate in physical education, a dress code requirement is strictly enforced by most schools. Typically dress is athletic wear, including closed-toe shoes. Commonly, a physical education school uniform (t-shirt, hooded sweaters, sweats or shorts) is made available for boys and girls. Proper equipment for boys may also include an athletic supporter for the male genitalia area. For girls, a sports bra is recommended.

Hygiene is also introduced in physical education by way of making showers and proper use of water, soap and deodorant a requirement after each session of P.E.. This serves to teach appropriate sanitary practices and cleanliness.