Modern Visions of Physical Education: The Dissemination and Institutionalization of Polish Enlightenment Publications

Abstract

The Enlightenment was an era of cultural, social, and political changes. The collapse of feudalism, social reconstructions, and start of manufacturing all influenced education, including changes in physical education curricula in schools. Accordingly, published Polish works on health, hygiene, and exercise reflected cultural and scientific developments during the Enlightenment era. Although local sports historians consider the nineteenth century as the period that laid the foundation for the development of today’s physical education and sport, Polish thinkers actually presented the concept of physical education curricula, called ‘recreations’ at the time, during the eighteenth century. Adults were also advised to exercise outdoors to maintain their health and physical prowess. Original Polish works published between 1740 and 1830 presented thinkers’ views on physical education and active forms of physical activities. They carried the message about the importance of physical education, including its educational and health benefits. By introducing systematic physical activity into the educational programmes of children and young people, Polish Enlightenment thinkers demonstrated a modern vision of physical education that was with the spirit of the age.