In modern times, Physical Education is one of the most exciting and dynamic subjects. This subject has changed
dramatically during the last 50 years. It has expanded in different areas from school to non-school setting and from
school-aged children to people of all ages. Earlier, physical education was generally understood as physical activities
either in school time table or some free hand exercises, games, sports, racing, swimming, etc. If we look at the Indian
history of physical education after Independence, a number of schemes were launched by the Government of India
for schools, where every student must participate in physical activities. We can witness the growing interest in
games and sports exemplified by the fitness boom and the wellness movement. Sports events receive worldwide
coverage. In schools, students like sports and other forms of physical activities, which help to achieve and maintain
their health and well-being
Physical Education is an education which brings improvement in human performance with the help of physical
activities. Physical activities range from simple walking to jogging, running, sprinting, hopping, jumping, climbing,
throwing, pushing, pulling, kicking, etc. Education without physical activities is like body without soul. There is no
controversy in giving due place to physical education and different forms of exercises in the total set-up of
education. All teachings in human education begin with physical education. Physical education is also considered as
movement education as the life begins from movement only. In general life is characterised by movement. The
movement starts from the birth of a child, till the end of life.
Mental, intellectual, emotional and social development of a growing child is dependent and closely related to
physical development. A physically fit individual possesses a well balanced personality which is, mentally sharp,
emotionally stable and socially well-adjusted.
Physical education teaches how to acquire ability to develop strength, speed, endurance and coordination abilities. It
also emphasises on achieving social qualities, such as, empathy, cooperation, friendliness, team spirit, and respect
for rules, which are essential for healthy social relations with others. In this era of technological advancement,
physical education and sports are considered essential for health, fitness, wellness, vigour and strength.
The concept of physical education is not new. The fact is that it has its roots in the ancient period. At various stages
in history, different people have associated different meanings to the word ‘Physical Education’. Physical Education
in simple words is understood as learning with the help of movements of body and realising the benefits at mental
level. It simply means education through the use of physique and physical movements and deriving the advantage
for social gain. Some of the definitions given by well known authors are given here to understand and for the ready
reference of the students.
In ancient India, a sanskrit adage stated that “Sharir Servarth Sambhavo Dehe”. The National plan of physical
education (1956) states that, “Physical education should aim at making the child physically, mentally and emotionally
fit and developing personal and social qualities which will help to live happily with others and build a good citizen”. It
further emphasises that the development of the total personality and achievement of worthy citizenship motivated
for service should be the outcomes of physical education.
According to the Ministry of education (1956) states that, “Physical education should aim at making the child
physically, mentally and emotionally fit and developing personal and social qualities which will help to live happily
with others and build a good citizen”. It further emphasises that the development of the total personality and
achievement of worthy citizenship motivated for service should be the outcomes of physical education.
According to the Central Advisory Board of Physical Education and Recreation, “Physical education is the process of
education through physical activities. It is the development of the total personality of the child to its fullness and
perfection in body, mind and spirit.”
Sports and physical education are an integral part of the learning process, and need to be included in the evaluation
of performance. A nation-wide infrastructure for physical education, sports and games are required in the
educational field. The infrastructure consists of playfields, equipments, coaches and teachers of physical education.