Physical Fitness Programs History Essay Research Paper

Physical Fitness Programs
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The concept of physical fitness is a common topic today. However, it has long been a national issue. The issue of American’s physical fitness caught the attention of President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953. Dr. Hans Kraus's study indicated that American youths were out of shape and lagging behind other countries regarding their physical fitness. As the Cold War was beginning, Americans were attuned to the suggestions that the nation was falling behind in an area. In response, President Eisenhower formed the President’s Council of Youth Fitness via executive order. However, it was President John F. Kennedy who ensured that physical fitness became a household thing. He made physical fitness a larger portion of his campaign and administration. The federal efforts of Presidents Eisenhower and JFK were reflected in the 1960s and 70s phenomena of emphasis on physical fitness.[Bowers, Matthew T., and Thomas M. Hunt. "The President's Council on Physical Fitness and the Systematisation of Children's Play in America." The international journal of the history of sport 28, no. 11 (2011): 1496-1511.]
The notion of the mind-body connection became popular due to the emphasis on holistic health. It was driven by the idea that the mind and the body were connected. Working on the body became a virtuous thing for individuals to do. The initiatives by Eisenhower and JFK were critical in advancing the idea of fitness during the Cold War era. Responsible Americans were those who took their health seriously. The presidential fitness programs emphasized the need for Americans to remain healthy, not only in their mental and social aspects but also in their physical component. The fitness programs were more than becoming a soldier or joining the military, they also included having fun. While these programs never got federal funding they needed, they were strong advisory programs that became crucial in promoting the health of Americans.[Brower, Vicki. "Mind–body research moves towards the mainstream." EMBO reports 7, no. 4 (2006): 358-361.]
The concept of physical fitness appealed to diverse people because of its connection to prosperity. Esalen Institute, founded in 1962, was based on the ideas of Eastern religions. The fou...