Physical Education: Changes for the Good?

Abstract

On July 16, 1956 President Dwight D. Eisenhower established the President’s Council on Youth Fitness after learning of the research findings that European children were more fit than American youth. The name was changed in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy to the President's Council on Physical Fitness. This change, extended the mandate to all Americans as well as children, and explained the idea and role of the Council. In 1966, per President Lyndon B. Johnson’s request, the Council’s mission was expanded to include sports. The name was once again changed to the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. On June 6, 2002, President George W. Bush signed Executive Order 13265 proclaiming a revived Council. The Council endorses daily physical activity for disease prevention and health; energetic physical activity, stretching, and strength training for fitness and added health benefits; and sports involvement, including sportsmanship values, throughout its programs, partnerships, publications, and Web sites. The Council pools resources with federal, state, and local agencies, as well as with the private and non-profit organizations to attain common goals and objectives.