May 1-7

National Physical Education and Sport Week

Get active and show off your athletic skills during National Physical Education and Sport Week - the perfect time to embrace a healthy lifestyle!

Yearly Date
May 1
Type
Week

Introduction

Get ready to lace up your sneakers and get moving because May 1 marks the start of National Physical Education and Sport Week! This week-long celebration was established in 1985 by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education to promote the importance of physical activity in our lives. It's a great time to try out new sports, join a fitness class, or simply spend some time outdoors enjoying your favorite activities. So let's kick off this week with enthusiasm and get our bodies moving for a healthier and happier lifestyle!

National Physical Education and Sport Week Timeline

1823
First Physical Education Class
The Round Hill School in Northampton, Massachusetts starts the first formal program of physical education in the U.S.
1895
SHAPE America Founded
The Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America), formerly known as the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (AAHPERD), is founded.
1954
President's Council on Fitness
President Eisenhower established the President's Council on Youth Fitness, emphasizing the importance of physical activity.
1972
Title IX Enforced
Title IX is enforced by the U.S. Department of Education, mandating equal opportunities for men and women in education and sports.
1985
National Physical Education & Sport Week
The National Association for Sport and Physical Education established National Physical Education and Sport Week to promote physical activity.
2010
Let's Move! Campaign
Former First Lady Michelle Obama launched the Let's Move! campaign to solve the epidemic of childhood obesity within a generation.

How to Celebrate National Physical Education and Sport Week

1

Organize a sports day

Gather friends or classmates and plan a day full of different sports activities. This is a great way to get active and try out new sports while celebrating National Physical Education and Sport Week.

2

Participate in a virtual race

Find a virtual race that supports a cause or organization related to physical education or sports. This is a fun and challenging way to celebrate while also giving back to the community.

3

Try a new sport

Use this week as an opportunity to try out a new sport or physical activity that you've always been interested in. You may discover a new passion or simply have a fun time trying something new!

4

Host a fitness class

If you're a fitness enthusiast, consider hosting a free fitness class for others to join in on. This is a great way to promote physical activity and celebrate National Physical Education and Sport Week.

5

Create a sports-themed playlist

Get pumped up for the week by creating a playlist of your favorite workout songs or songs related to sports. This can be used as motivation during workouts or as background music for any sport-themed activities you plan.

Why We Love National Physical Education and Sport Week

A

Promotes a healthy and active lifestyle

National Physical Education and Sport Week is an important reminder for all of us to prioritize our physical health. It encourages participation in various forms of physical activity, promoting overall wellness for both children and adults.

B

Fosters teamwork and sportsmanship

Physical education and sports teach important skills like working together as a team, communication, and respecting one another. National Physical Education and Sport Week emphasizes the importance of these values through fun and engaging activities.

C

Celebrates the joy of movement

From running around on the playground to trying out new sports, National Physical Education and Sport Week celebrates the simple joy of movement. It's a time to appreciate the ways our bodies can move and have fun while doing it!

National Physical Education and Sport Week Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Apr 30
Sunday
2024
Apr 30
Tuesday
2025
Apr 30
Wednesday
2026
Apr 30
Thursday
2027
Apr 30
Friday