In the dynamic field of physical education, where fostering a lifelong commitment to health and wellness in students is key, having access to the right resources is crucial for educators. With the advancement of technology and educational strategies, physical education has evolved to encompass a broad spectrum of activities and teaching methodologies.
In this blog post, I share a selection of diverse and resourceful websites for physical education teachers. These platforms offer a treasure trove of tools, ideas, and insights, ranging from game-based learning and technology integration to comprehensive health education and professional development.
From the in-depth articles on PE Update to the tech-focused resources of The PE Geek, each website brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re looking to infuse new energy into your PE classes, stay abreast of the latest trends, or deepen your understanding of physical and health education, these resources are designed to support and inspire educators in creating engaging, effective, and inclusive PE programs.
Physical Education Websites for Teachers and Students
Here are some very good physical education websites for teachers and students:
1. PE Central
PE Central is a comprehensive resource for physical education teachers. It offers lesson plans, assessment ideas, and best practices for K-12 physical education classes. The site includes a wide range of activities, from traditional team sports to individual fitness challenges, catering to different age groups and skill levels. Additionally, PE Central provides resources for health education and ideas for integrating physical activity into other subject areas, making it a valuable tool for creating a holistic and inclusive PE curriculum.
2. ThePhysicalEducator.com
This website is an interactive resource for physical education teachers, featuring a variety of innovative teaching tools. It includes a blog with insightful articles, ready-to-use lesson plans, and a unique ‘Game Design Studio’ where teachers can create and share their own PE games. The site also offers infographics and visuals that can be used to enhance learning and engagement in PE classes. Its focus on professional development and community engagement makes it a great platform for educators looking to expand their PE teaching repertoire.
3. SHAPE America
SHAPE America (Society of Health and Physical Educators) is a leading national organization for health and physical education professionals. Their website provides a wealth of resources, including standards-based lesson plans, professional development opportunities, and advocacy tools. SHAPE America is known for its research-based practices and policy support, making it a go-to resource for teachers seeking to stay informed about the latest trends and best practices in physical education.
4. GoNoodle
GoNoodle offers a unique approach to physical education by providing short, interactive movement and mindfulness videos designed to energize and engage students. It’s particularly effective for incorporating physical activity into classroom settings, offering a fun and easy way for teachers to get students moving. GoNoodle’s videos cover a wide range of activities, from dancing to stretching, making it a versatile tool for promoting physical fitness and well-being in a variety of educational contexts.
5. Spark PE
Spark PE is dedicated to creating research-based physical education programs for children and adolescents. Their website offers curriculum materials, training programs, and assessment tools designed to foster lifelong wellness habits. The focus of Spark PE is on inclusive, active, and fun PE lessons that cater to a wide range of abilities and interests, ensuring that every student can participate and benefit from physical education. Their resources are particularly useful for teachers looking to implement evidence-based strategies and comprehensive PE programs in their schools.
6. PE Scholar
PE Scholar is a resource-rich platform for physical education professionals, offering a vast array of articles, research papers, teaching materials, and professional development guides. It serves as a great academic resource, providing in-depth insights into various aspects of physical education, from teaching strategies to the latest research in the field. The site is particularly useful for educators looking to deepen their understanding of PE theory and apply it in practical, innovative ways in their classrooms.
7. TeachPE
TeachPE is dedicated to providing free resources for both students and teachers of physical education, sports science, and health. It offers a wide range of content including lesson plans, training programs, and information on sports physiology and biomechanics. This makes it an ideal website for PE teachers seeking to expand their knowledge in sports science and integrate it into their teaching.
8. PhysEd Games
As the name suggests, PhysEd Games focuses on providing a vast collection of physical education games and activities. The website categorizes games by equipment, space, and age group, making it easy for teachers to find appropriate activities for their classes. It’s a great resource for those looking to diversify their PE activities and keep their classes dynamic and engaging.
9. Gopher PE Blog
The Gopher PE Blog is an extension of the Gopher Sport equipment store, offering an informative blog that covers a wide range of PE-related topics. Articles range from activity ideas and curriculum advice to tips on classroom management and student engagement. The blog is regularly updated with fresh content, making it a relevant and useful resource for modern PE educators looking to stay on top of current trends and ideas in physical education.
10. The PE Geek
Run by Jarrod Robinson, a leading expert in the field of technology in physical education, The PE Geek website focuses on integrating technology into PE teaching. It offers resources on using apps, gadgets, and tech tools to enhance physical education, making it ideal for educators looking to modernize their PE classes and engage digitally savvy students.
11. Cap’n Pete’s Power PE
A resource-rich website for physical education teachers, Cap’n Pete’s Power PE offers a variety of downloadable PE activities, games, and teaching resources. The site is known for its engaging and creative content, which includes holiday-themed activities, fitness challenges, and skill-based games, providing educators with innovative ideas to keep their PE classes exciting and inclusive.
12. PHE Canada (Physical and Health Education Canada)
PHE Canada is an excellent resource for Canadian PE teachers, but its wealth of information is valuable for educators worldwide. The site offers teaching tools, advocacy resources, and professional development opportunities. It’s particularly strong in promoting holistic health education, integrating physical, mental, and emotional well-being into physical education practices.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, the world of physical education is vast and continuously evolving, and the websites we’ve explored offer just a glimpse into the wealth of resources available to educators. These platforms collectively provide an array of materials and ideas that can transform the physical education experience for both teachers and students. From innovative game ideas on PhysEd Games to the comprehensive lesson plans on SHAPE America, each resource contributes to the goal of nurturing physically active, health-conscious, and well-rounded individuals. Embracing these tools and incorporating them into your teaching practice can lead to more dynamic, inclusive, and effective PE classes.
