In 1839 in Sweden, Ling strove to make physical education a science?

• A. A sport only
• B. A science
• C. A religious ritual
• D. A hobby

Answer: (B)

Ling aimed to elevate physical education into a disciplined, study-able field by systematizing it and grounding it in health, physiology, and pedagogy. He developed a structured program—the system of gymnastics—that could be taught, measured, and advanced, with standardized exercises, apparatus, and teacher training. In 1839 Sweden, this effort reflected a belief that PE could be studied and applied scientifically rather than being just sport, ritual, or a casual hobby. That focus on method, curriculum, and scientific rationale is why the correct choice is that physical education was pursued as a science.