Gendered differences in participation in active lifestyles (encompassing sport, physical activity, and physical education) are well established, with young men typically participating in more activities than young women. This paper uses a theoretical approach inspired by Bourdieu's notions of habitus, field and capital to explore the 'how' and…

Discusses how athleticism was used to imbue qualities of patriotism, manliness, courage, obedience, and physical fitness in British middle- and upper-class boys during the 1870s. Examines the idea of whether the ideology of athleticism contributed to various London schools moving from the inner-city to the suburbs in 1897 and 1902. (GEA)