What physical education is

Physical education is education through physical activity, from walking and jogging to jumping, throwing and kicking. Life itself begins with movement, so it is sometimes called movement education.

It develops strength, speed, endurance and coordination, and social qualities such as empathy, cooperation, team spirit and respect for rules.

Its roots are ancient: a Sanskrit saying holds that the body is the means of doing one's duties, and Vivekananda, Socrates, Aristotle and Plato valued physical training for the young.

Definitions: the National Plan of Physical Education (1956) aims to make every child physically, mentally and emotionally fit and a good citizen; the Central Advisory Board calls it education through physical activities developing body, mind and spirit; Charles A. Bucher calls it an integral part of the total educational process.

Its final aim is the total development of the personality, so that people live happily with others and become good citizens.