Imagination, imagine, image ... Image is all about perceptions. Body image refers to the perceptions, thoughts, feelings and behavioral reactions to body size and appearance. You'll notice the word "reality" does not appear in that sentence. But image can be stronger than reality. People who suffer from eating disorders will tell you just how strong "image" can be.

The goal of the outcomes associated with Body Image is to help students make the connection between physical activity and positive self-image. Research has shown that people with a positive body image are more likely to lead physically active lifestyles, follow a pattern of healthy eating and are less likely to smoke cigarettes.

Building a positive body image can start as early as kindergarten by constantly reinforcing that people are unique and everybody can develop their personal attributes, improving their inherent strengths and weaknesses.

In the teen years it becomes more difficult to battle the influences of popular media. The grade 7-9 body image outcomes start to focus on the media as an influence on body image.

By grades 7-12 the outcomes relate to the effects of performance enhancing drugs and the potential dangers in using them.

Throughout the PE curriculum there is an emphasis on individual abilities regardless of body type. The development of an "I can" personal body image instead of an "I can't " body image, is one way to create a desire to participate.

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