Implementing Physical Best in Higher Education Courses

Overview & Synopsis

Since the emphases of physical education teacher education (PETE) programs can be linked to quality K-12 instruction, embedding Physical Best (PB) materials into existing PETE curricula can be a practical means of addressing the obesity crisis in the public schools. The PB program is a comprehensive, health-related fitness education program that can be implemented in existing K-12 physical education curricula. Upon successful completion of a certification workshop and a written examination, individuals have the resources and understanding of the program components and principles to implement health-related fitness education and assessment for youth. This article offers practical suggestions for (1) coordinating fitness education throughout PETE programs, (2) developing syllabi, (3) designing appropriate student assignments within different courses, (4) integrating NASPE standards through PB, and (5) encouraging students' integration of PB concepts and content into other sport/activity areas. (Contains 2 figures.)