THE DOMAINS OF PHYSICAL LITERACY

Physical Literacy is a relatively new topic in the health and wellness world. The term was first coined by Dr. Margaret Whitehead, a physical education teacher at the time, in 1993. She defined physical literacy as motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement with physical activity throughout life. 

Physical Activity Foundation

Whitehead framed this concept as a guide for how to properly build a relationship with physical activity. Since physical activity is usually discussed in relation to health, physical literacy is commonly thought of as a roadmap to health. While this isn’t necessarily a negative thing, it does turn certain individuals away from striving to become physically literate. One does not need to be 100% healthy to be physically literate. Rather, think of physical literacy as the foundation upon which a healthy lifestyle may be built. 

Thinking of physical literacy as a foundation is helpful because it supports why it is a necessity for all ages. The foundation we have supports any physical endeavor we set out on. Whitehead described four domains that contribute to a solid foundation: motivation, confidence, physical confidence, knowledge, and understanding. At different stages of life, what is required for each domain may morph; however, all four must still contribute to maintaining a solid foundation. 

Motivation

This is the why. Motivation probably changes the most from a youth to an adult. For kids, the why should always be, “because it's fun.” Even though there may be a grander reason for a coach or parent, the easiest way to motivate a kid is to make sure they are having fun. If a kid can find fun in physical activity, they are set up well to be lifetime movers.

Adults should also strive to have fun; however, there may be other “why’s” that get prioritized alongside just moving for fun. You may want to be able to stay moving for a trip you have coming that requires hiking, or because your kid is starting to get a little too close to beating you in 1-on-1 basketball. Whatever the reason, having an internal motive for wanting to stay physically active helps you stay moving in stressful times when you would otherwise become sedentary.

Confidence

Universally, confidence is bred from action, and insecurity is bred from inaction. For all ages, trying new physical activities will expand your comfort zone and increase your belief in your ability to move. Many people are held back from attempting movements simply out of fear that they cannot do them. For kids, keeping them moving and engaged with physical activity can prevent them from developing these fears and give them the confidence to attempt things they might not be able to do safely. For adults, identifying where these fears are, and gradually expanding your comfort zones around them can make a huge difference in how you view engaging with physical activity. 

Physical Competence

This is the how. To put it briefly, the body should be able to move functionally. Here is a short generalized list of the global (total body) movements most people should be able to achieve: squat, hinge, push, pull, jump/land, catch/throw, carry, and rotate. Think of these movements as tools, and you're a handyman. If you are crafty with your tools, you can solve most problems (or the ones that require physical activity, at least). To be crafty, you need time and practice with them.

Knowledge and Understanding 

This is the domain that ties the other three together and is arguably the most important. Knowledge and understanding refer to individuals buying in and valuing the importance of lifelong physical activity. As we discussed at the beginning, health is NOT the reason for putting physical literacy on a pedestal; rather, it is the lasting foundation that is built for moving and how we may use it to engage with life!

Are You Ready to Build Your Physical Foundation?

As a parent, there is definitely a “monkey see, monkey do” effect with your children. If you value physical literacy and partake in PA that breeds it in yourself, then your children are more likely to engage in activities that will improve their physical literacy as well. 

PFP will be offering a Physical Literacy class for young children in the New Year! There will be two available classes per week, Tuesday at 10:00 am
for children 1.5-3 years of age and Thursday at 10:00 am for children 3-5/6 years of age. Sign up here!

Sources

Margaret Whitehead 1 (2001) The Concept of Physical Literacy, European Journal of Physical Education, 6:2, 127-138, DOI: 10.1080/1740898010060205