PHYSICAL FITNESS AND EXERCISE

Press, Volume C, Issue 29600, 24 August 1961, Page 17

PHYSICAL FITNESS AND EXERCISE

Up to a point healthiness was hereditary but each individual could make or mar what he had inherited, said Associate Professor P. A. Smithells. director of the school of physical education at the University of Otago, in an address to the Physical Education Society congress at Canterbury Agricultural College, Lincoln, last evening. He said this was apparent even in the early teens and by middle age many persons by neglect of their general condition . allowed age to creep up on them prematurely. Many persons by the age of 30 were tense, flabby, easily out of breath and with few physical reserves. Exercise might not lengthen life to any significant degree but it could prolong vitality and allow the enjoyment of simple pleasures such as walking, breathing easily and freely and being able to relax. Professor Smithells said it was more and more realised that at any age exercise was one of several major factors which produced, maintained or regained physical fitness. “Tlie task of the physical educationist is to make sure that all children • knew well before they leave school how their body works and what they can do to maintain it at any age. It is not just a matter of teaching children gymnastic tricks or sports. It is the long-term goals that matter. Too easily the emphasis is put on superficial things in displays and concerts.” he said. “I am worried that primary school education is in danger of becoming aimless and too permissive. It is a dangerous idea that physical education can be taught through all subjects. Certainly it is related to art i and music, but it has an intrinsic value of its own and is not concerned just with • the child’s self expression but with things the teacher

has to give the child,” said Professor Smithells.

Forms I, II and 111 had pupils in their most recep-

tive years, a time for maximum learning, mentally and physically. Those were the years when children could be given advice on health and physical fitness which they could put into practice for the rest of their lives, he said.