Explore Physical Activity

Is It Physical Education or Physical Activity?

Understanding the Difference

With heightened attention on childhood obesity prevention efforts, there seems to be some confusion between the terms "physical education" and "physical activity." Often the words are used interchangeably but they differ in important ways. Understanding the difference between the two is critical to understanding why both contribute to the development of healthy, active children. SHAPE America believes every child in the United States deserves both a quality physical education and physical activity program. Learn more.

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SHAPE America believes every child in the United States deserves both a quality physical education and physical activity program.

SHAPE America recommends school-age children accumulate at least 60 minutes and up to several hours of physical activity per day while avoiding prolonged periods of inactivity.

SHAPE America supports faculty, students, teachers, fitness trainers, recreation instructors, and community leaders who promote lifelong and inclusive physical activity and recreation.

• Supports understanding of physical activity and physical education and how both contribute to the development of healthy, active children.
• Supports professionals with adapted physical education and activity resources.
• Supports professionals with early childhood resources.
• Offers Bikeology, a ready-to-use bicycle-safety curriculum for physical education teachers and recreation specialists working with students in grades 6-12.