The Routledge Physical Education Reader

Physical Education teaching and research is fundamental to the physical and social health of our communities. The Routledge Physical Education Reader presents an authoritative and representative selection of the very best international scholarship in PE, drawn from across the full topical range of the discipline.

Containing a rich blend of contemporary, 'classic' and hard-to-find articles, this book helps students gain a full understanding of the historical context in which current issues and debates within PE have emerged. Leading international scholars Richard Bailey and David Kirk weave a thoughtful editorial commentary throughout the book that illuminates each key theme, making insightful and important connections between articles and approaches. The book is divided into eight thematic sections, each of which includes an extensive guide to further reading:

• Nature and values of physical education









• Physical education and sport









• Physical education and health









• Learners and learning









• Teachers and teaching









• Curriculum and content









• Social construction of bodies









• Researching physical education

Addressing the most important topics in contemporary physical education, and representing a comprehensive 'one-stop' resource, The Routledge Physical Education Reader is essential reading for all serious students of physical education, sport, coaching, exercise and health.

Richard Bailey holds the Chair in Education and Sport at the University of Birmingham, UK, and is a member of the Executive Board of the International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education.

David Kirk is Professor of Physical Education and Youth Sport at Leeds Metropolitan University, where he has been Dean of the Carnegie Faculty of Sport and Education since 2004. He is editor of the journal Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy.