Professional ethics in physical education: from start to the podium

Abstract Health professions underwent an intense institutionalization process (creation, organization and regulation) and most saw their professional councils established and regulated by the mid-20th century. To evaluate physical education professionals’ level of knowledge regarding the PE code of ethics, a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 63 physical education professionals working in 27 gyms in the city of Jequié, Bahia, Brazil. Results showed no statistical association between knowing the Code of Ethics for Physical Education Professionals and having a specialization. The interviewed professionals showed reasonable knowledge regarding the code of ethics, considering it an essential element in their professional practice.