Research In Action Article Information

Article Annotation
Beighle, A. (2004). Using fitness activities to promote lifestyle physical activity in physical education. Teaching Elementary Physical Education, 15(3), 35-38.

Key Words: Physical activity; fitness levels Physical activity and physical fitness are often erroneously used interchangeably. Yet, there is a distinct disparity between the two. Physical activity involves movement involving the use of energy. It results in various health benefits. Physical fitness, on the other hand, is an area of physical activity. There are varying levels of fitness that can be reached through physical activity. However, there are limitations to reaching certain physical fitness levels, including heredity and maturation. Though innate characteristics cannot be altered, fitness levels can improve based on individual capabilities. In attempting to change ones level of fitness, it is important to be cognizant of the disparity between physical activity and physical fitness. Both are important components of physical education. However, fitness is often laden with negativity. Many people have an unfavorable outlook on fitness due to poor past experiences. With this in mind, there are strategies to incorporate fitness into physical education in more enjoyable ways. For instance, providing choice allows students to have ownership over their learning. Along with activity choice comes task organization. Instead of students being held to a definitive outcome (i.e. ten pushups), a time limit can be given (i.e. perform pushups for 30 seconds). This leads to fewer opportunities for failure. Typically, children can be successful when given the opportunity. An awareness of how to present fitness can help teachers integrate fitness effectively. Another addition to fitness activities is music, which can enhance students enjoyment. And, with any type of activity, providing variety will keep students interested. The monotony of a repeated lesson is likely to turn students off from the activity. It is integral that teachers are aware of how their instructional practices meet or fall short of students needs. Implications for Teaching: Importance of instruction/how info is presented (in generating interest) Must be cognizant of individual needs, including limitations based on heredity and maturation (expectations should differ by individual) Music enhances any content Fitness does not have to be presented in a militaristic fashion Choice is a key component to any lesson

Related Readings 1. Corbin, R.P. & Pangrazi, R.P. (1992). Are American children and youth fit? Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, 62(2), 96-106 2. Corbin, C.B., Pangrazi, R.P., & Franks, B.D. (2000). Definitions: Health, fitness and physical activity. Presidents Council on Physical Fitness and Sports: Research Digest, 3(9), 1-8. 3. Darst, P. & Pangrazi, R. (2002). Dynamic PE for secondary school students (4 th ed.). San

Francisco: Benjamin Cummins. 4. Ernst, M.P., Pangrazi, R.P., & Corbin, C.B. (1998). Physical education: Making a Transition toward activity. Journal of Physical Activity, Recreation and Dance, 69(9), 29-32. 5. Pangrazi, R.P. (2004). Dynamic physical education for elementary school children . San Francisco: Benjamin Cummings. 6. US Department of Health and Human Services (1996). Physical Activity and Health: A Report of the Surgeon General. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and National Center Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.

Submitted by Kristin Jensen who is a masters student in the School of Sport & Exercise Science at the University of Northern Colorado. Thanks for contributing to PE Central! Posted on PEC: 3/30/05.

| Home | Lesson Ideas |Search PEC | Assessment Ideas | Bulletin Boards | PEC Store | Kids Programs | Advertisers | Media Center | Professional Info | Kids Quotes | Adapted PE | Preschool PE | Classroom Management | Job Center | Web Sites | PE Research | Best Practices | PEC Challenge | About PEC | Privacy Policy | Submit Your Ideas | FAQ's |

Contact us via e-mail at pec@pecentral.org or mail to: PE Central P.O. Box 10262 Blacksburg, VA 24062 FAX: 540-301-0112