Gymnastics can fill a useful place in schools, but without careful supervision it is often carried too far. Many young people, in an attempt to show off their strength, have done themselves lifelong injury. Counsels on Health, p. 189. (adapted)

We shouldn’t give up activities that provide exercise and recreation. However, these activities should be kept strictly within bounds so that they do not lose their purpose and feed the desire for self-centeredness. Manuscript Releases, vol. 1, p. 391. (adapted)

As a rule, exercise with a purpose benefits youth the most. Little children enjoy play and play helps in their development. But even at a a young age a child’s sports should promote not just physical, but also mental and spiritual growth. As children grow stronger and more intelligent, the best recreation will be found in exercise that is useful and that teaches youth to be responsible. This kind of exercise is the best for promoting growth of mind and character. Education, p. 215. (adapted)

As a reward for good behavior and studious habits, the teachers [in Switzerland] take their students out and have a long hike with them, dismissing school earlier than usual. I like this. Letter 42, 1886. (adapted)

I wince at the almost sure result which follows competitive sports. These games lead people to spend money that should be given to bring the gospel to dying people who do not know Christ. Money is spent on amusements and expenses to please self, which leads to pride. A passion for activities that are not helpful in perfecting a Christian character is created by teaching people to love these games. The Adventist Home, p. 499. (adapted)