PHYSICAL EDUCATION.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVIII, Issue 84, 10 April 1937, Page 8

PHYSICAL EDUCATION.

In supporting Dr. Hercne' scheme for physical training of teachers, we desire to say that a proposal on somewhat similar lines is already before the. Government. The suggestion in question is that a gymnasium be attached to each of our schools (even if it he only a bare room) in which the children may daily have the benefit of instruction in physical education, prefaced each day by a short talk on hygiene, elementary nutritional physiology, applied biology and similar essential subjects. Pending the establishment of a training centre on the lines suggested by Dr. Hercus. the authorities might make use of talkie films or gramophones. It must not, however, he overlooked that sustained physical education will have the immediate effect of increasing the appetites of the children. It i» therefore essential that a national scheme of nutrition should he embarked upon, as i ecommended by the League of Xations, and as already adopted by the British Government, and that thi< should be undertaken prior plans being completed for the phvsical education of the race. As Sir John Orr puts it: 'Increased attention to sport or to physical education can never mitismte the effects of incorrect nutrition." We trust Xew Zealand will avoid the mistake of putting the cart before the horse. PHYSICAL AND MFA'TAh WELFARE SOCIETY.