Participation in sporting activities was a valued part of Native Americans' lives.
Colonists coming to the New World, especially those from Great Britain, brought with them a love for sports and games.
Early physical education programs in the United States promoted calisthenics, light gymnastics, hygiene, and strength development.
German and Swedish gymnastics formed the basis for many early physical education programs.
Teacher training institutes and a professional organization provided the educational foundation and a forum for the future development of physical education and sport programs.
Play became recognized as an essential aspect of healthy child development.
Amateur sports in clubs and on college campuses were organized and became competitive.