This article reflects on an instructor's experience of incorporating an optional assignment in a theology class wherein students are invited to learn a new athletic skill, journal while doing so, and then theologically reflect on their experience. It begins with the instructor making a case for the need to bring the body back into the classroom.…

This article describes successful efforts by physical education teachers at Elberton Elementary School (GA) to construct an affordable pull-up board that could be used to help improve students' arm and upper body strength. An explanation is given of how to use the machine, and the benefits to students are briefly discussed. (IAH)

Examines whether prepubescents are trainable in competitive sports, noting trainability differences between prepubescents and older groups. Changes in maximal aerobic power, metabolic cost of walking and running, muscle strength and power, and local muscle endurance are examined. Strength training is recommended only for rehabilitation or…

Strength and coordination are two areas of physical development that seem almost to "take care of themselves"--which may be the reason why they are often overlooked when curriculum planning is under way in many early childhood settings. After all, children are going to get stronger as they grow older, thus, they will also become more coordinated…

Physical fitness is not simply a performance oriented discipline but also, and more importantly, a health oriented discipline. The new American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) Health Related Physical Fitness Test battery reflects this idea in its four components: cardiovascular function, body composition,…

This paper's major focus is on particular physical-motor domain contributers to the total effectiveness of the person. Topics addressed include: (1) the integrity of the organism; (2) mental achievement; (3) personal-social effectiveness; (4) the nature, extent, and significance of individual differences; and (5) the configuration of…

One concern frequently cited regarding early childhood programs is that methods for assessing some of their more important objectives are inadequate or nonexistent. This paper addresses this concern in the areas of health, safety, nutrition, dental health, and physical development during the preschool years. An organizing framework for classifying…