A023: Physical Education and Health in Global Perspective

Globalization and social change have made physical education, health, and physical activity essential to achieving global health objectives. Despite progress in policy design, cultural adaptation, and practice innovation, persistent challenges such as resource inequality, cultural misalignment, and limited efficacy hinder sustainable development. This study explores the evolution of policies, cultural integration, and reform practices in physical education and health, aiming to analyze shared global experiences and unique national approaches while identifying opportunities and challenges to support sustainable progress in the field. Method: This study combines literature analysis and case studies, examining policy documents, reports, and case examples from international organizations (e.g., the United Nations, WHO) and key countries (e.g., the U.S., U.K., China). Analysis focuses on four dimensions: 1) Policy: Trends and implementation outcomes of global physical education and health policies. 2) Culture: Integration and adaptation of physical activity in multicultural contexts. 3) Standards: Applicability and implementation of international and regional standards. 4) Reform: Impact of innovative practices on improving education and health outcomes. The findings indicate 1) Policy Evolution: Global policies are shifting toward "health first," "equity and inclusion," and "sport for life" principles. While many countries promote universal health strategies, policy implementation is uneven due to resource disparities and socio-cultural differences. 2) Cultural Integration: Physical education and sports exhibit distinct cultural characteristics. The U.S. emphasizes competition and individual achievement, the U.K. prioritizes social responsibility and gentlemanly conduct, and China focuses on traditional culture and community harmony. Globalization has facilitated cultural integration, but challenges such as cultural conflict and loss of local identity remain. 3) Standards and Assessment: WHO and other international organizations have set standards for health and physical activity with broad applicability, but challenges such as cultural misalignment and rigidity in assessment systems persist. Innovations in school-based physical education curriculum and health monitoring systems offer promising directions for standard optimization. 4) Reform and Innovation: Global best practices underscore the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, resource sharing, and technological support in enhancing physical education and health outcomes. Notable examples include Finland’s “interdisciplinary integration” model, Japan’s community sports initiatives, and Denmark’s “Active Schools” program, each offering valuable insights for global implementation. Sustainable development in physical education and health requires balancing global and local needs, with policy leadership, cultural adaptation, standard frameworks, and innovative practices as key drivers. This study provides theoretical insights and practical guidance for global and cross-national research in the field.