Includes bibliographical references (pages 271-296) and index.

This book is an introduction to the social and cultural issues that society tackles when its members are physically active. It emphasizes the promotion of healthy individuals and a healthy body in the many movement settings where the body is active. This book takes a contemporary approach to physical culture to include not just sport but also fitness, dance, aerobics, weight training and more. The authors take a community approach to understanding the factors involved in crafting a healthy society. The authors discuss topical, modern issues such as reducing disparities in education and income, increasing socioeconomic diversity in communities, medicalization of fitness, the rise of cosmetic fitness, the promotion of physical activity as a requirement for health, and the globalization of the fitness industry.