What Is Physical Education?

Physical Education is the teaching and leading of physical activity in a school gymnasium or other school setting. The goal of Physical Education is to improve and maintain students' current health and set them on a path to maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout their lives. This article will tell you more about what Physical Education is and how to pursue a career in it. Schools offering Fitness & Nutrition degrees can also be found in these popular choices.

Physical Education

Physical Education, also known as gym class, is a class taught in Kindergarten through 12th grade that involves student participation in physical activity. The goal of Physical Education classes is to introduce students to the basic elements of exercise that will lead to a healthy lifestyle. Students get exercise and increase their psychomotor abilities by playing a variety of traditional sports, like basketball and soccer, and participating in exercise activities, like lifting weights and aerobics. Physical Education teachers may also use sports and physical activities to teach about cultural and historical aspects of sports. In some Physical Education classes, especially in elementary schools, students also learn about health and nutrition.

Education Required to Be a Physical Education Teacher

Physical Education teachers require a bachelor's or master's degree in Physical Education, depending on the school district. Physical Education degree programs teach students the basic activities of Physical Education classes, the science behind physical activity, and give students plenty of practical student teaching experience. In general, master's degree programs in Physical Education contain more in-depth education theory and science components than bachelor's degree programs. Classes include:

  • Accident Prevention
  • Kinesiology
  • Evaluation of Physical Fitness

Career Outlook in Physical Education

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), www.bls.gov, predicts only a 6% growth in the number of jobs for high school teachers and a 13% growth in jobs for elementary and middle school teachers from 2006-2016. However, the BLS cautions that these numbers may be even lower for Physical Education teachers. Physical Education teachers who have a master's degree and certification to teach a second subject will have the best chance of finding jobs.

To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:

  • 1. Degree Options:

Popular Schools

Copyright