A student or an athlete bleeding does not mean that the teacher or coach is necessarily bad or irresponsible. Most have had students (probably from dry heat in the winter) who develop a nosebleed for no apparent reason. Obviously there are also physical activities and sports with a higher chance of physical contact, and thus potential for…

Fueled by the internet, instantaneous videos, and the emphasis to look "right" or always win athletic competitions, many students are seeking information on nutrition and dietary supplements. Classroom observations reveal student interest and discussions are among the highest when the topic is dietary supplements. Teachers and coaches provide an…

While one can assume that most educators try to be fair and attempt to provide equitable learning opportunities for all students, it is not uncommon for them to slip into their own stereotyped attitudes and treat males and females differently. Research on gender in classroom settings indicates that males are called on more frequently and given…

At the start of each athletic season, it is crucial that all athletes, parents, and coaches are on the same page in terms of team rules, expectations, and other important information. Traditionally, information such as eligibility requirements and playing time allocation has been transmitted verbally to student athletes through meetings at the end…

This article describes the benefits of integrating yoga into elementary physical education classes. Taught as warm-up exercises or as an entire class, yoga offers children of any age and physical ability the opportunity to experience success in physical activity. Children need to experience joy while participating in physical activity in order to…

For decades, sport in the United States has been praised for reflecting the values of society and instilling these values in athletes. Some parents believe that values such as cooperation, fair play, learning how to win and lose, self-discipline, and teamwork are instilled in young people through participation in sports. Many coaches of youth and…

Strength, balance, and stability are important factors in performing movement skills, but are often overlooked by elementary schools when planning a quality physical education program for young children. These three interrelated structural characteristics are involved in all human movements. Movement is created by continually changing postures in…

Recent advances in the technology field have changed the way video support should be considered. It is now much more user-friendly and feasible than it was as recently as 10 years ago. In part because of these significant strides, current literature supports the use of video technology in the classroom. This article focuses on the innovative use…

Defining the quantifiable elements of a highly qualified physical education teacher is challenging. For the past two years, a task force of the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) has worked on describing characteristics associated with highly qualified physical education teachers. Highly qualified teachers are needed to…

This article defines asthma and exercise induced asthma, and provides information on the triggers, signs, and symptoms of an attack. It also gives treatments for these conditions, along with prevention guidelines on how to handle an attack in the classroom or on the practice field. (Contains 2 tables and 1 figure.)

With pressure for student academic achievement throughout the educational environment, physical educators are being called upon to support student learning in a variety of academic areas. The National Association for Sport and Physical Education set guidelines which direct the physical education teacher toward motor, health, and fitness…

Childhood obesity and inactivity levels among young Americans have risen steadily over the last few decades, and has become a major concern. Participation in regular physical activity helps prevent excess adiposity in children and youth. Recess is a regularly occurring period of time in school children's days which is an opportunity to help them…

Motivating students to achieve learning goals in physical education is a challenge for physical education teachers. Dance, in particular, has long been considered an instructional unit in which it is difficult to motivate students. This article presents a practicing physical education teacher's reflection of her successful curricular reform and…

Physical educators at all grade levels often provide instruction in open environments and classrooms without walls, such as gymnasiums, school playgrounds and athletic fields. Open teaching environments present unique challenges when it comes to implementing and displaying class information such as class schedules, routines and procedures, rules…

Within the setting of a quality physical education program there is a dynamic process occurring. This process is a perennial expression of both teaching and learning. Educators are continually striving to improve teaching approaches in an attempt to create a program that consists of skill development, participation, and collaboration between all…