Introduction to physical literacy
A seminal paper written by UK academic, Margaret Whitehead, in 2001 spearheaded the concept of physical literacy. Since then, the term has been adopted by policy makers, health specialists and physical education teachers across the world. Physical education has a very unique role in promoting physical literacy by helping to lay the foundations of a physically active life by nurturing positive attitudes towards engagement in physical activity for every age group throughout all stages of education.
Physical literacy has been described as the underlying goal for physical activity engagement and so continues to develop and gain momentum with many governments recognising its potential for the betterment of health and wellbeing in their populations. Its international proliferation has inevitably carried with it a broadened (or sometimes narrowed) understanding of what physical literacy means.
The most recognised and widely accepted definition is provided by the International Physical Literacy Association (IPLA) who describe physical literacy as “the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life” (IPLA, 2017). They outline seven underlying principles for practice: the individual, confidence, promoting motivation, physical competence, developing knowledge and understanding, devolving responsibility, and using feedback/charting progress as a motivational tool.
These key principles fall into four recognised components that have been useful for physical literacy assessment – the physical, affective and cognitive domains.
Let’s delve into these further.
The three domains of physical literacy
These three components of physical literacy work together to promote a well-rounded and adaptable approach to physical activity, supporting a physical literacy journey of lifelong engagement. Holistic learning enables individuals to draw on these integrated skills to lead healthy and fulfilling lives through movement and physical activity.
Physical
The physical component of physical literacy is understood as activity and competence.
Physical Activity
Physical literacy begins with participation in a wide range of physical activities. This component emphasises the importance of being active and engaging in different types of movement in varying environments. It involves exploring various activities, from sports and dance to outdoor recreational pursuits. The goal is to encourage individuals to experience and enjoy diverse physical activities, promoting a lifelong commitment to staying active.
Physical Competence
Physical competence refers to the development of fundamental movement skills and motor abilities. This includes mastering skills like running, jumping, throwing, catching, balance, and coordination. Physical competence is the foundation of physical literacy, as it ensures that individuals have the necessary skills to engage in various activities with confidence and effectiveness.
Affective
The affective component of physical literacy refers to an individual’s enthusiasm for, enjoyment of, and self-assurance in adopting physical activity as an integral part of life (Canadian physical activity guidelines – Physical Literacy Canada). This is determined by their motivation and confidence.
Motivation and Confidence
Motivation and confidence are essential aspects of physical literacy. People need the motivation to engage in physical activities regularly, and confidence in their abilities plays a significant role in sustaining physical activity. This component focuses on building self-esteem and a positive attitude toward physical activity. It encourages individuals to set and achieve goals, which, in turn, enhances their overall motivation and self-assurance.
Cognitive
Another important component of physical literacy is understanding the principles of movement so that individuals can use this knowledge to move well and make informed choices relating to physical activity.
Knowledge and Understanding
Physical literacy emphasises the cognitive aspect of being physically active. It involves understanding concepts related to physical health, fitness, nutrition, safety, and biomechanics. Having knowledge in these areas empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their physical well-being, set appropriate goals, and adapt to changing circumstances. Understanding the “why” and “how” of physical activity can enhance one’s overall experience and help in injury prevention and performance optimisation in a variety of settings and physical environments.
Three/Four or Five Domains
A Whitheadian perspective would identify just three domains, the physical, affective and cognitive, but other frameworks also present a behavioural domain and/or a social domain. The behaviour domain is about individual responsibility in prioritising regular physical activity as an integral part of an active lifestyle. This involves a sustained involvement through a range of physical activities that are meaningful and personally challenging. The social domain recognises the impact of social connection created through movement experiences which can also often be a key motivator for engagement in physical activity.
Conclusion
Whether you use three, four or five domains the emphasis should be on creating a holistic appreciation of movement and physical activity. The aim is to help individuals become and remain active, develop the necessary skills, stay motivated, and make informed choices regarding their holistic well-being. Overall, physical literacy is about fostering a lifelong love for physical activity and ensuring that individuals have the tools to flourish and lead active and healthy lives.
Further information on physical literacy
Blogs
Read our previous Insight:
And look out for next week’s blog on Unlocking the Power of Physical Literacy
PE scholar offer a wide range of resources and courses that are underpinned by a physical literacy approach. This short course Introducing Physical Literacy may be of interest, as well as this book and presentation on how to nurture physical literacy in PE.
To dig deeper into the concept of physical literacy, you may find this presentation on Physical Literacy as a Disposition helpful, in addition to this poster on the Physical Literacy Continuum.
For more on the philosophy of physical literacy click here.
The Journal of Sport and Health Science have also published a special issue on physical literacy.
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