In 1920, when H.C. Buck founded the Y.M.C.A. College of Physical Education in Madras, the institution provided a firm foundation for Physical Education in India. The Indian government recognized it in 1923 as the official Training and Certification center for students who wished to obtain a Public School Physical Training Certificate. A six-month Diploma in Physical Education was initiated, later expanded into a year-long course offering a Diploma in Physical Education (D.P.Ed.). The institution obtained 2f & 12(B) status in 1978 from the University Grants Commission, along with receiving grant-in-aid. "Mr. H.C. Buck was the first to introduce uniformity and establish Olympic standards through his 'Books of Rules,' which are still in print."

In 1985, the University of Madras and the Government of Tamil Nadu granted autonomous status to the college. In 2002, the college received recognition for all its courses from NCTE and also started a two-year M.P.Ed. programme as suggested by UGC and NCTE. It achieved an "A" grade accreditation in 1st cycle from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council with a score of 86.2 in 2003. Subsequently, in 2013, it was re-accredited with an "A" grade in 2nd Cycle with a CGPA of 3.28. Notably, the Y.M.C.A. College of Physical Education holds the distinction of being the first Physical Education College in India to receive NAAC accreditation.

In 2005, the College shifted its affiliation from University of Madras to Tamil Nadu Physical Education and Sports University, Chennai, as per the Government's directive. As the Y.M.C.A. College of Physical Education marks its centenary in its 103rd year, it remains dedicated to its vision as a teacher training institution. It aims to produce well-rounded leaders in Physical Education, fostering the development of physical, mental, moral, and spiritual values contributing to the nation's well-being.

The College adopted the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) in 2006 for M.P.Ed and M.Sc. courses, and in 2013 for B.P.Ed. courses. Currently, the College offers an M.P.Ed with an intake of 60 seats and B.P.Ed., with one unit of 100 students. Additionally, it runs PG Diploma in Sports Coaching with an intake of 12 seats and M.Sc. in FERN courses with an intake of 20 seats as an evening college. The UG course B.P.E.S., with an intake of 80 seats, and Diploma in Physical Education, Govt. of Tamil Nadu, admit 40 students. In 2013, the affiliating university granted the college a Research Center for Doctoral programme in Physical Education. The College also offers B.M.Sc., a unique training course which trains students to teach and coach the visually impaired population in sports and games and mobility skills.

The College runs a Sports Higher Secondary School with 200 students and a Special School with 25 children in our campus. The Special School admits children with disabilities and caters to the Physical, Psychological, and Educational needs of special children. The campus permits fitness enthusiasts to make use of the grounds and the available facilities in the campus. We have 14 sports academies for different sports and games which mold grass-root players to reach higher levels. Around 1500 members visit the campus daily for their fitness and wellness.