Course Description

Syllabus

 
      Introduction

 
    1.  What is Physical Intelligence?

 
    2.  Orientation in Relation to Gravity

 
    3.  Perception

 
    4.  Proprioception

 
    5.  Spatial Perception

 
    6.  Complex Coordination

 
    7.  Learning and Development

 
    8.  E-motion

 
    9.  "Tooling"

 
    10.  Flight  
           

 

Physical Intelligence classes take an experiential approach to the investigation and application of our innate ability to learn physical skills. Philosophically, the curriculum is founded on the premise that physical education is more than strength training, flexibility and aerobic fitness; physical education is also the development of our ability to access and benefit from the physical intelligence of the human organism.

The core of the Physical Intelligence program is a three-semester curriculum that uses the MIT gymnastics gym as a laboratory to introduce and develop physical intelligence, and then to apply the experience to academic pursuits. Selected readings and discussions combine with experience-based learning leading not only to the development of balance, agility, flexibility and strength, but to a deep appreciation for the reciprocity of mind and body that suggests physical intelligence as a powerful complement to cognitive intelligence.