Physical education and research programs, and recreational and athletic facilities, in Yugoslavia, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, England, and the U.S.S.R. are examined by two faculty members from the University of Alberta. This publication is an abridgement of their report on European approaches to physical education and recreation, giving their observations and the philosophy behind physical education in the countries visited, and listing practices and policies that could benefit Canadians. Each country visted is discussed in terms of general background, philosophy of physical education, recreational and sports organizations, research, teacher training, organization of sports, facilities, and general recommendations, Following are some of the features that have met with success in Europe and are summarized as recommendations for Canadians: (1) Establishment of a national training center for recreation leaders and coaches; a federal training camp for athletes and representative teams; a national research institute in physical education and sports medicine; and a national research institute to study present facilities. (2) Creation of a sports secretariat for all of Canada. (3) Initiation of an awards system for all adults and children, and greater promotion of provincial and national competitions for all age categories. (4) Development of a system of coaches paid by the federal government and working on a nationwide basis. (5) The introduction of two European sports--orienteering and European handball-- to Canadians, and active promotion of both activities. (6) The provision of extensive playing fields for school and community use. (7) The launching of a national study aimed at the development of outdoor facilities that would encourage Canadians to make use of their scenic terrain. (8) Several features apply particularly to schools: encouragement of provincial and national sports schools; realistic provincial standards for facilities; greater emphasis on elementary school physical education; and development of small, inexpensive swimming pools for elementary school use. (MM)