PHYSICAL EDUCATION.

Evening Star, Issue 22619, 10 April 1937, Page 22

PHYSICAL EDUCATION.

TO IBS EDITOR. Sir, —In supporting Dr Hercus’s 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), m 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 Herons, the authorities might make use of talkie films or gramophones. It must not, however, be overlooked that sustained physical education will have the immediate effect of increasing tho appetites of the children. It is therefore essential that a national scheme of nutrition should be embarked upon, as recommended by the League of Nations, and as already adopted by the British Government, and that this should he undertaken prior to plans being completed for the physical education of the race. As Sir John Orr puts it: “ Increased attention to sport or to physical education can never mitigate the effects of incorrect nutrition.” IVc trust New Zealand will avoid the mistake of putting the cart before the horse.—We are. etc., Physical Axn Mental Weleaue Society. Onehunga, April 7.