Licensed physical educators in Piauí, Brazil, have been barred from practicing in gyms following the end of an agreement known as the Term of Conduct Adjustment (TAC) with the Ministry of Public. This agreement, which expired on February 19, allowed professionals with a teaching degree to complete the required subjects for obtaining a bachelor's degree within two years. As a result of this expiration, many educators are now facing significant financial losses and uncertainty regarding their future careers.

On February 24, physical educators gathered at the headquarters of the Regional Council of Physical Education (CREF) in Teresina to request an extension of the deadline for completing their degrees. The importance of the TAC stemmed from its role in bridging educational qualifications, where previously, public universities in Brazil offered a complete physical education course that prepared graduates for both teaching and practical application in gyms, studios, and sports clubs. The current situation highlights a discrepancy in how educational pathways are structured within the profession, often leaving educators in limbo due to bureaucratic delays.

Currently, there are 3,006 licensed professionals, 2,788 bachelors, and 2,834 individuals with dual qualifications in Piauí, as stated by the council. This incident not only puts a spotlight on the immediate challenges faced by physical educators in the region but also raises broader questions about the adequacy of educational programs in meeting the professional demands of the fitness industry and potential legislative measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.