The American Association for Leisure & Recreation (AALR) was formed to support community based programs for “creative and active lifestyles through meaningful physical activity, recreation and fitness experiences across the lifespan.”1 Established in 2005, they published the newsletter Par for Life for their members, which included educators, students, and practitioners in the recreation field.
By January 2006, AALR was acquired by American Association for Active Lifestyles and Fitness (AAALF), which in turn became the American Association for Physical Activity and Recreation (AAPAR).2 Based in Reston, Virginia, AAPAR became one of the five national associations under the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) umbrella.3 In 2013 AAPAR voted to unify with AAHPERD and was assimilated into the organization losing its name.
Continuing the mission of the AALR, the AAHPERD provides resources for educators, students, and community leaders to promote lifelong and inclusive recreation and physical activity. These workshops, publications, conferences, and webinars, focus on teaching physical activity, sport management, human kinetics, adapted physical education, and outdoor recreation. They believe that “fitness and fun are for everyone: for ALL ages and abilities.”4
- 1. “American Association for Leisure & Recreation.” Free Online Encyclopedia. < http://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/American+Association+for+Leisure+%26+Recreation > 10 July 2013.
- 2. “American Association for Active Lifestyles and Fitness.” Library of Congress, Authorities & Vocabularies. < http://id.loc.gov/authorities/names/n97045878.html > 10 July 2013.
- 3. “National Associations.” American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. < http://www.aahperd.org/about/nationalassociations.cfm > 23 July 2013.
- 4. “Physical Activity and Recreation.” American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. < http://www.aahperd.org/par/ > 23 July 2013.
