Cycling, Skiing, and Physical Education History: Techniques & Schools
Cycling and Winter Sports Techniques
Mountain Biking
Check the brakes, bolts, and levers of the bicycle. Check the tire pressure. Adjust the seat to the appropriate height. Wear a helmet and gloves. Gather your tools.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Skiing Equipment
- Skis: Made of a rigid but flexible material, allowing users to glide without sinking into the snow.
- Ski Boots: Protect the feet and attach to the skis via bindings.
- Bindings: Connect the boot to the ski.
- Poles: Sized appropriately for the skier to aid in movement.
Nordic Skiing Techniques
Used for traversing flat terrain, inclines, and descents.
- Alternate Step: Move one foot, gliding across the snow while lifting the heel. The skis move in parallel.
- Skater Step: Similar to skating on wheels, the skis move outward, propelled by pressure against the snow. Poles aid in propulsion and balance.
Alpine Skiing Techniques
Often involves using chair lifts to ascend slopes before skiing down.
- Straightforward Descent: Maintain weight evenly distributed between parallel skis, leaning slightly back into the boots.
- Wedge (Snowplow): Used for braking and speed control. Open the tips of the skis to form a V-shape, bending the knees. Angling the wedge allows for turning left or right.
- Parallel Turning: Skis slide on their outer edges, shifting pressure to the opposite inside edge to initiate the turn.
Snow Surfing (Snowboarding)
- Board: Constructed from flexible materials suitable for various types of descents.
- Boots: Soft boots allow for flexion and extension of the ankles.
- Bindings: Secure the boots to the board.
History of Physical Education
Early History
The earliest evidence of physical activity dates back 60,000 to 80,000 years (prehistoric times). In the 13th century BC, Babylonians engaged in horse racing, wrestling, running, and boxing. Pharaohs and their children practiced swimming, wrestling, dance, high jumping, and gymnastics.
Ancient Greece
In ancient Greece, physical fitness was considered essential for personal development. A beautiful body reflected inner perfection, and physical culture was integral to national identity. The Olympic Games were a significant sporting event.
Roman Empire
The Roman Empire valued physical training, but a distinction emerged between the moderate exercises of Roman citizens and the rigorous training of gladiators. Philosophers often criticized the excessive physical training.
Middle Ages
Physical activity declined during the Middle Ages. Intellectual pursuits gained prominence, and physical training was primarily for warfare.
Renaissance
During the Renaissance (15th and 16th centuries), physical activity regained importance due to a renewed interest in classical cultures (running, jumping, throwing).
Schools of Physical Education
Precursors
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, educators in Europe began to systematize exercise for comprehensive physical development and apply it in schools.
Key Figures
- France and Spain: Francisco Amorós
- Sweden: P. Henrik Ling
- Germany: Ludwig Jahn
- England: Thomas Arnold
French School
Francisco Amorós established a system in France that emphasized military-style exercises. However, its rigidity hindered widespread adoption. Pierre de Fredy studied Arnold’s English sporting methods and introduced them to France, influencing Amorós’s school.
Swedish School
Henrik Ling’s method, based on scientific principles and medical knowledge, had a significant impact in Europe.
Principles
- Movement is crucial for its effect on the body.
- Prioritize fitness for optimal organic development and function.
- The method should align with scientific understanding (anatomy and physiology).