Physical education

In most educational systems, physical education (PE) is a course which promotes physical activity and various sports. The intent is generally to promote fitness and health, as well as the benefits of team-building, teamwork, sportsmanship, and fair play. The better programs require, or encourage, participants to wear standardized uniforms or loose, light clothing that promotes free movement, safety and hygiene.

Some popular US physical education activities include:

In most states and provinces in Canada and the United States of America, physical education is a required course from grades 1 to 6, although states and school districts can set their own requirements (and many districts with limited budgets are cutting back on physical education).

In Canada, physical education is required up to grade 10, although some provinces are considering extending this to grade 12. In the United States, individual states determine the requirement for physical education in their schools, and state requirements in middle schools and high schools vary widely from state to state.

Sports played in other countries

In the UK, different sports like netball and rugby are played.
In Romania and Moldova, oina (which is similar to baseball), rugby, basketball and soccer are popular sports played in PE classes.
In New Zealand and Australia, softball, cricket, and sometimes rugby, are played.
In Japan, physical education is most likely more like what the Americans call health classes, although some Japanese high schools, like ones in Hokkaido, have the American version.
In Sweden, sports like floorball and brännboll are played, along with internationally more well-known sports such as soccer, basketball and volleyball.