Health-based physical education a pedagogical model in focus

Abstract

This chapter provides a rationale and framework for the Health-based Physical Education (HbPE) pedagogical model. The main idea of HbPE is ‘valuing a physically active life’ which contrasts with the emphasis on fitness, exercise and sport-dominated outcomes in common forms of health-related PE. This model has the potential to reconceptualise the way in which health-related PE is taught and enhance its impact on young people’s physical activity behaviours. The chapter highlights the rationale for new PE-for-health pedagogies with specific reference to pedagogical models, before exploring the background and development of HbPE. The chapter aims to justify HbPE’s main idea, learning aspirations, critical elements and pedagogy. Throughout the chapter, teachers are encouraged to reflect on strategies for supporting students to value a physically active life through PE.