| Title: |
Student Health Crises on College and University Campuses and the Paradoxical Decline of Required Physical Education |
| Language: |
English |
| Authors: |
Alexandra Szarabajko; Bradley J. Cardinal |
| Source: |
Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance. 2025 96(6):15-27. |
| Availability: |
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals |
| Peer Reviewed: |
Y |
| Page Count: |
13 |
| Publication Date: |
2025 |
| Document Type: |
Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive |
| Education Level: |
Higher Education; Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: |
Physical Education; Required Courses; Higher Education; College Students; Physical Activity Level; Physical Health; Mental Health; College Role; Recreational Activities; Educational History; School Policy |
| DOI: |
10.1080/07303084.2025.2507569 |
| ISSN: |
0730-3084; 2168-3816 |
| Abstract: |
Required physical education (PE) emerged at one college in the mid-19th century to address student health concerns. It expanded to near-universal adoption nationally during the 1920s-1930s. Since then, it has declined. In the 21st century, approximately one-third to two-fifths of colleges and universities require physical education for their students. Paradoxically, college and university students are less physically active and are experiencing more health issues than those observed when PE requirements were instituted about 160 years ago. There is an enormous body of evidence documenting the benefits of physical activity, which was already substantial when the Surgeon General of the United States issued a report in 1996, and, further, declared that colleges and universities should have physical education requirements. This article addresses U.S. college students' physical and mental health status, discusses institutions' current role in addressing student health issues, and summarizes current trends in PE requirements. |
| Abstractor: |
As Provided |
| Entry Date: |
2026 |
| Accession Number: |
EJ1502376 |
| Database: |
ERIC |