Abstract
Since the 1980's, many fitness education programs have been developed in schools in the USA. adopting new rationales and contents. The present study was conducted to highlight these changes and the adoption of these rationales. The procedure of the investigation was: 1. To study the development of a number of fitness education programs including "Physical Best," developed by AAHPERD, and "Fitness for Life," developed by Corbin and Lindsey (1997). 2. To review statements concerning the basic rationale of the new programs. 3. To consider comprehensively the shift in content of the new programs. The results obtained were as follows: 1. The objectives of the programs showed a change of focus from short-term improvement of fitness to development of ability and aptitude toward life-long physical activity. 2. The focus of the programs changed from skill-related fitness to health-related fitness. 3. There was a shift in fitness outcome (product) towards regular physical activity (process). 4. The content of the programs now emphasizes knowledge and self-management skills for life-long physical activity, and individualized exercise to develop a positive attitude towards physical activity. 5. The programs give importance to the development of sport skills, and affective and social dimensions, which are supportive for life-long physical activity.
