Thinking Long Term: Physical Education's Role in Movement and Mobility

Overview & Synopsis

This paper addresses the role of physical education in promoting physical activity and mobility. It is assumed that attitude is an important component that influences physical activity and, ultimately, mobility. A variety of factors and the way they impact children's attitudes toward physical education are discussed. In particular, the outcomes of physical education, motor skill development and student skill level, and student attitude are presented. The factors that influence student skill development and attitude are interrelated and occur over many years both in and out of school. I conclude that to promote physical activity, physical education must address attitude and be enjoyable. (Contains 2 figures.)