Merleau-Ponty and gymnastics for all: rethinking paradigms in sport and physical education

Abstract

Objective: Phenomenological approach based on Merleau-Ponty, raised reflections on Gymnastics for All (GfA), which, in turn, evoked rethinking some paradigms in Physical Education and Sport. Methodology: Accessing experiences of our world-lived in different contexts in gymnastics, we reflected two axes of analysis: a) the method that congregates: rethinking the body by "itself" for the body by "being-together" and b) from the event that exhibits: rethink a body that shows itself for the bodies that stage. Results and Discussion: We found that the conceptual plurality of GfA may be evident and its working methods different but they plead in a direction that cannot lose sight of the adjective allocated in its name: “for all”. Potentially, GfA brings out the gymnastics that should be allowed to all who are willing to participate in a GfA group. Conclusion: This reflection, by itself, promotes the pedagogical practice and can increase performance for the entire field of Sport and Physical Education. Therefore, we are outstanding a GfA that, even with its institutional particularities, remains plural and that leads a thought in the corporeality, rethinking actions and relationships, allowing a sensitive sport practice.