The History of the Study of Human Movement

1. The History of the Study of Human Movement Chapter 2

2. Table of Contents • Why Study the History of Human Movement? • Past Influences • Enduring Themes • Modern European Themes • Modern North American Themes Sport Books Publisher

3. Objectives • Having a historical frame of reference is important for understanding kinesiology • Describe the major historical landmarks in the evolution of the study of human movement • Describe cultural attitudes and practices, individuals, and events that have most influenced the study of human movement in higher education Sport Books Publisher

4. Why Study the History of Movement?

5. The History of Human Movement • Kinesiology students can: • gain a historical frame of reference • understand the impact of early events on current affairs • predict future trends Sport Books Publisher

6. Past Influences on the Study of Human Movement in Higher Education

7. Early Influences • Movements were culturally specific • Physical abilities were used to engage in useful activities: • gathering of food • hunting • necessary physical labor for survival Sport Books Publisher

8. Early Influences • New activities begin to emerge: • hunting and fighting become complex • now require training and preparation • rhythmic movement at festivals • communal dances • trials of strength and combative ability Sport Books Publisher

9. Early Influences • Simple forms of sporting contests in pastoral and agricultural societies: • running races • wrestling • boxing • shooting contests • fencing with various weapons • jumping • throwing • swimming • rowing • riding animals • chariot racing • various ball games Sport Books Publisher

10. The Greek Influence • 6th to 9th century B.C.: • daily activities balanced • sport played large role in everyday life • By the 9th century: • physical activities extended beyond battle • gymnasiums and wrestling schools built Sport Books Publisher

11. The Greek Influence • Early 6th century B.C.: • Panhellenic games established • the Isthmian, the Pythian, the Nemean • games also held at the religious sanctuary of Olympia • register dates back to 776 B.C. Sport Books Publisher

12. The Greek Influence • Athletic emphasis at games: • foot racing • the pentathlon • jumping • discus • javelin • a one-stage foot race • wrestling • heavy events • boxing • wrestling • pankration • combined wrestling and boxing • chariot racing Sport Books Publisher

13. The Greek Influence • All games featured balance between athletics, music, poetry, and drama • Fostered political democracy • citizen athletes could improve their upward mobility • Competitive activity accompanied by rhythm and harmony of music and dance Sport Books Publisher

14. The Roman Age • Emphasis on the physical centered on strength and hardiness • Roman emperors promoted games and festivals • purpose was to occupy and appease Roman subjects • often brutal, spectator-oriented Sport Books Publisher