Regulation of the profession: legality versus legitimacy

Abstract

The study aimed to critically analyze the regulation of the Physical Education profession in Brazil, contrasting the aspects of legality and legitimacy. The research is based on a theoretical review of the role of regulatory bodies, such as CONFEF/CREFs, and their impact on professional autonomy and the identity of Physical Education. The results indicate that regulation imposes systematic control, which ensures organization and ethics on one hand but restricts the plurality of professional practice on the other. It is concluded that regulation should consider the diversity of perspectives in Physical Education, balancing legal requirements with the recognition of professional practice, to avoid imposing a single model of intervention.