Physical Literacy

Physical literacy is important because it is both a gateway to and an outcome of lifelong participation in physical activity. Being physically active throughout life can enrich a person’s quality of life. As physical literacy plays a key role in infl­uencing choices to participate in physical activity, it must be clearly defined so it can be understood by everyone.

Physical literacy is defined as:

The motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding that enables a person to value and participate in physical activity throughout life.

This definition was formally endorsed in the All-Island Physical Literacy Consensus Statement and accompanied by an all-island ministerial launch in October 2022:

Endorsement of the Consensus Statement by everyone provides the foundation for the creation of a culture wherein lifelong physical literacy and physical activity for all are valued and promoted, and in which each person has the opportunity to benefit from a better quality of life. The All-Ireland Physical Literacy Consensus Statement is at the forefront of the work that Sport Ireland does (Sport Ireland Statement of Strategy 2023-2027, p.26-27).

Ireland’s Lifelong Involvement in Sport & Physical Activity (LISPA) framework illustrates how, based upon a foundation of physical literacy, people can choose to get and stay involved in sport and physical activity at recreational level or through active living. It also highlights how people can go on to participate in organised sport and can progress to involvement at the high performance level.

Understanding Physical Literacy Workshop

Sport Ireland, in partnership with Sport Northern Ireland, have developed an 'Understanding Physical Literacy' workshop that gives participants the opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding of physical literacy.

This  2-3 hour-long  interactive workshop (available online or in person) will enable participants to:

· Outline the origins, definition, elements, relationship between the elements and importance of physical literacy.

· Explain whether individuals can be described as ‘physically literate’ and whether physical literacy can be assessed.

· Identify where, how, when and who can assist in the development of physical literacy.

The workshop is based on the content of the booklet Understanding Physical Literacy

Express your interest in the Physical Literacy Module