What is Physical Literacy?

What exactly is physical literacy? 

Physical Literacy is the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life." (International Physical Literacy Association, 2014)

Developing physical literacy starts at birth and moves us towards being active for life, with each individual taking their own journey dependent on exposure and access to various environments. Physical literacy is like any other skill we are learning. It needs to be actively developed, nurtured, supported, encouraged. It becomes embedded in our identity. 

Let's look at the recommendations from the World Health Organization about how much physical activity an individual should be getting every week. 

The global recommendations set by the World Health Organization (2020) state:

• Children and youth aged 5–17 should complete at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity daily, and 3 days a week vigorous-intensity aerobic activities should be incorporated. 

• Adults aged 18–64 should do at least 150-300 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week, do at least 75-150 minutes of vigorous intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week, or an equivalent combination of moderate and vigorous intensity activity.

• Older adults should do at least 150-300 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week, do at least 75-150 minutes of vigorous intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week, or an equivalent combination of moderate and vigorous intensity activity.
  

  
  Time to reflect: 

Are you currently meeting the physical activity requirements for your age?
What physical activities do you enjoy doing?
What is the story you are telling yourself as it relates to exercise? (example. I don't have enough time, or I can't do that.) 
What are your physical fitness goals? 
What is one thing you can do today to move your body?

Physical Literacy has 4 core elements: 

1. Motivation 
The motivation to participate in activities is higher when an individual believes that they have the ability to perform the necessary skills. 

2. Physical Competence
Physical competence refers to an individual's ability to develop movement skills and patterns, and the capacity to experience a variety of intensities and durations in a wide range of physical activities and settings. We build confidence as we practice and master the skills. We have to believe in ourselves and our abilities. 

3. Knowledge and Understanding
Having the ability to identify and express the qualities that influence movement, understanding the health benefits of an active lifestyle, and appreciate appropriate safety features a variety of environments. 

4. Engagement in Physical Activities for Life 
Motivation, competence, knowledge and understanding lead us towards being physically active for life. We can learn more about who we are, build positive feelings states, and have fun. 

Remember, our bodies are designed to move so how do you like to move your body?