Physical Education

Physical education is a vital component of the educational program,

aimed at fostering the optimal development of individuals physically,
socially, emotionally, and mentally through engaging in well-chosen physical
activities (Andin, 2002). It focuses on the teaching and learning of skills and
attitudes through play activities, This aspect of education can be aptly
described as education through physical exertion.

Legal Bases for teaching Physical Education in the Philippines

 1901 Physical exercise became part of public school subjects, with

regular athletic programs.
 1920 Physical Education subject became mandatory in all public
schools.
 1937 Physical Education became a formal subject in secondary school
curricula.
 1969 The School of Physical Education and Sports Development Act of
1969. A program of activities included among others:

a. A program of health education and nutrition;

b. A program of physical fitness for all pupils;

c. A program of competitive athletics;

d. A program of intramurals and inter-unit athletic completion

within schools, districts, and provinces.

e. An annual athletic competition within and among regions.

 1982 MAPE was introduced, and the learning area involves music, arts,
and physical education. (Foundation of Physical Education by Carmen
Andin)

Article 1 of the International Charter of Physical Education and

Sports, UNESCO, Paris (1975) and Recommendation 1, Inter-
disciplinary Regional Meeting of Experts in Physical Education and
Sports, UNESCO, Brisbane (1982).

1.1. Every human being has a fundamental right of access to physical

education and sport, which are essential for the full development of
his personality. The freedom to develop physical, intellectual, and
moral powers through physical education and sport must be
 guaranteed both within the educational system and in other aspects of
social life.

Article XIV Section 19 (1) & (2) of the 1987 Philippine Constitution
mandates that:

1. The state shall promote physical education and encourage sports

programs, league competitions, and amateur sports, including training for
international competitions, to foster self-discipline, teamwork, and
excellence for the development of a healthy and alert citizenry.

2. All educational institutions shall undertake regular sports activities

throughout the country in cooperation with athletic clubs and other sectors.

Functions of Physical Education

Physical Education performs three functions:

1. Biological Function:
This aspect of physical education enhances individuals' growth and
development by promoting healthy body movement patterns. It supports
physical health and well-being, aiding in the development of motor skills,
coordination, and overall fitness.
2. Integrative Function:
Physical education plays a crucial role in integrating personality traits
through participation in diverse and well-chosen physical activities. It
fosters self-discipline, resilience, teamwork, and critical thinking skills,
contributing to holistic personal development.
3. Social Function:
Beyond individual benefits, physical education serves a societal role by
transmitting essential values and standards. It promotes cooperation,
respect, and inclusivity, aligning with societal needs and ideals.
Additionally, it cultivates leadership qualities and fosters a sense of
community and belonging among participants.

Physical Education, defined as education that utilizes movement, is

fundamentally a critical aspect of the educational process. Its core purpose is
to enhance and complement individuals by utilizing carefully selected and
professionally guided physical activities. Through structured exercises,
games, and sports, Physical Education promotes physical fitness, motor skill
development, teamwork, and overall well-being. It plays a pivotal role in
fostering lifelong habits of health and fitness, while also nurturing social
skills, discipline, and resilience. Ultimately, Physical Education serves as a
cornerstone in the holistic development of individuals, preparing them to
lead active, balanced lives and contribute positively to society.

Fitness - A Major Goal of Physical Education

The concept of fitness varies among individuals, it encompasses

physical, social, emotional, and mental well-being. From this viewpoint,
FITNESS can be defined as the ability to lead a healthy, fulfilling, and
purposeful life a life often referred to by educational philosophers as the
"good life," which represents the ultimate goal of education.

Living the "good life" entails meeting basic needs such as physical
well-being, love, security, and self-respect. It involves harmonious
relationships with others, a genuine interest in their well-being, and a
commitment to serving humanity with integrity and ethical standards.
Through secure connections and a positive outlook on the future, individuals
can lead fulfilling and impactful lives.

As an integral part of the educational system, Physical Education aims

to foster the holistic development of individuals, enabling them to attain total
fitness and thereby embrace the "good life". It serves as a catalyst for
achieving physical health, emotional resilience, social competence, and
mental acuity. By promoting regular physical activity, sportsmanship,
teamwork, and self-discipline, Physical Education equips individuals with the
tools needed to thrive personally and contribute positively to society.

Therefore, at its core, a primary goal of Physical Education is to

develop FITNESS a state of well-being that empowers individuals to lead
enriched, meaningful lives characterized by health, happiness, and a deep-
seated commitment to the common good.

Objectives of Physical Education

The following objectives of Physical Education are described in relation

to how they help with education outcomes and the curriculum.

A. Physical Development
Physical Education activities, carefully selected and actively
participated in, contribute significantly to the maintenance of good
health and the enhancement of physical fitness. Regular engagement
in physical activities helps individuals build and sustain physical skills,
thereby improving overall growth and development (NASPE, 2007). For
instance, participation in sports and exercises improves cardiovascular
 health, muscular strength, flexibility, and endurance, leading to better
overall physical well-being.
B. Social Development
Participation in Physical Education activities foster the
development of essential social skills necessary for effective
interaction in various social settings It provides opportunities for
individuals to cultivate traits such as friendliness, cooperation, respect
for others' rights, and good sportsmanship (Gallahue & Ozmun, 2012).
Moreover, activities like team sports promote teamwork, leadership,
and followership skills, contributing to the development of well-
rounded individuals capable of contributing positively to society.
C. Emotional Development
Physical activities offer a platform for self-expression and
emotional regulation. Engaging in physical activities helps individuals
develop emotional traits such as self-confidence, self-control, self-
reliance, courage, and determination (Graham, Holt/Hale, & Parker,
2013). Overcoming challenges in physical activities builds resilience
and perseverance, essential for navigating life's challenges with
confidence.
D. Mental Development
Participation in Physical Education activities enhance mental
capacities through various cognitive processes. Individuals learn the
mechanical principles underlying movements, gain knowledge of game
rules and strategies, and explore ways to improve movement
techniques in gymnastics and dance (NASPE, 2007). Moreover,
engagement in sports and physical activities stimulates critical
thinking and decision-making skills, as individuals strategize and adapt
their actions according to rules and game situations (Gallahue &
Ozmun, 2012).

The objective of Physical Education aims not only to enhance physical

fitness but also to develop social skills, motor skills, aesthetic appreciation,
cultural preservation, and environmental conservation.

1. Knowledge: It enhances critical thinking about how activities are

performed according to rules, regulations, and strategies.

2. Physical Fitness: It helps improve and maintain an individual's

ability to handle physical tasks without excessive fatigue, ensuring they have
the energy to deal with other life challenges.
 3. Social: It helps individuals understand themselves better and build
good relationships with others, leading to more effective living.

4. Motor Skills: It involves learning the basic skills needed to

participate in sports and games.

5. Aesthetic: It relates to the appreciation of what is pleasing to the

senses.

6. Nationalism: It involves preserving cultural heritage by reviving

traditional games, dances, and sports.

7. Conservation: It focuses on protecting the natural environment,

such as forests and aquatic resources.

New Directions for Physical Education

In 2021, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines

issued CHED Memorandum Orders (CMO) No. 39 and No. 40, which mark
significant advancements in the Tertiary Physical Education Curriculum.

These CMOs are designed to enhance the quality and relevance of

physical education in higher education institutions, reflecting a modernized
approach that integrates contemporary educational standards and practices.
CMO 39 focuses on the policies, standards, and guidelines for the Bachelor of
Physical Education program, ensuring a comprehensive and competency-
based curriculum. Meanwhile, CMO 40 establishes the guidelines for the
teaching of Physical Education in the general education curriculum,
emphasizing the promotion of physical literacy, wellness, and lifelong fitness
among students.

These memoranda aim to cultivate a more holistic and dynamic

physical education framework, preparing students for diverse career
opportunities and fostering a healthier society.

Context of Physical Education

In 2010, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a seminal

report highlighting a concerning trend: physical inactivity had emerged as
the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. This groundbreaking
revelation underscored a critical health issue affecting populations
worldwide.
 The WHO report drew attention to the profound impact of sedentary
lifestyles on public health, linking insufficient physical activity to a range of
serious health consequences. It emphasized that physical inactivity
contributes significantly to the global burden of non-communicable diseases
(NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Inadequate physical activity levels were prevalent across all age

groups and regions, with urbanization, technological advancements, and
changes in transportation and occupational patterns often cited as
contributing factors. These societal shifts had led to reduced opportunities
for regular physical activity, exacerbating health risks on a global scale.

To combat physical inactivity and its associated health risks, WHO has
outlined specific recommendations for exercise tailored to different age
groups:

Children (5-17 years):

Kids and teenagers should get at least 60 minutes of moderate to

vigorous physical activity every day. This can include activities like running or
swimming for aerobic exercise, climbing or gymnastics for muscle
strengthening, and jumping or skipping for bone health.

Adults (18-64 years):

Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity

aerobic exercise each week, like brisk walking or cycling. Alternatively, they
can do 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activities, like running or aerobic
dancing, or a mix of both. In addition, adults should include muscle-
strengthening exercises, such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises, on
two or more days a week.

Older Adults (65 years and above):

Seniors with good mobility should focus on activities that help maintain
or improve their balance, especially if they are prone to falls. They should
engage in exercises that include endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility
components. Activities like walking, yoga, and light weightlifting can be
beneficial.

Role of Physical Education in Implementing Recommendations

 PE in schools and communities plays a vital role in promoting regular
physical activity from an early age and across the lifespan:

1. Education and Awareness: PE classes educate students about

the importance of physical activity, its benefits, and the risks of
inactivity, instilling lifelong habits of exercise.

2. Skill Development: PE teaches fundamental movement skills and

sports-specific skills, preparing students to engage in various physical
activities confidently.

3. Promotion of Active Lifestyles: PE programs promote active

living through structured physical activities, games, and sports,
encouraging students to meet WHO's exercise recommendations.

Purposes of Physical Education

1. Physical Fitness and Health: To help individuals achieve optimal

physical fitness and health, allowing them to live a fulfilling life and
contribute effectively to society's goals.
2. Economic Contribution: To prepare individuals to contribute to the
economy by:

a. Improving work habits and attitudes like punctuality, cooperation,

reliability, precision, accuracy, and open-mindedness.

b. Emphasizing critical thinking skills so they can identify problems

accurately and master skills useful in the business world.

3. Leadership and Morality: To train leaders with high moral integrity and
develop traits necessary for effective group participation, essential for
society by:

a. Instilling a strong value system that helps individuals make moral

decisions in daily life.

b. Encouraging group participation through activities like intramural

sports, play days, and sports festivals.

4. Creativity and Innovation: To foster creativity and innovation inspired

by faith in God, love of country, and care for fellow humans.

5. Cultural Appreciation and Unity: To instill a love and pride for one's
own culture and develop an understanding and appreciation for other
cultures, promoting international brotherhood and unity.