This handbook is a comprehensive, authoritative and evidence-based guide to contemporary and global developments in the field of physical literacy. It brings together leading scholars and practitioners from around the world to examine the importance of physical literacy across the life course.

Centred on the International Physical Literacy Association’s definition of physical literacy as the ‘motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life’, the book explores the philosophical and theoretical foundations of this powerful concept. It then takes a broad look at the impact that physical literacy has had on policy, research and in practice, in sport, health, education, leisure and recreation. Drawing on a substantial and growing evidence-base, the book considers the global need for different and more impactful approaches to engaging populations in sustained and lifelong participation in physical activity. The book presents case studies of physical literacy enactment in action, considers critical perspectives on physical literacy, and suggests future directions for physical literacy research, policy and practice.

Offering an unprecedented collection of theoretical and applied material across a range of sectors, this book is an essential reference for any student, researcher, practitioner or policy-maker with an interest in physical education, physical activity and health, the philosophy or sociology of sport and exercise, sports coaching and pedagogy, or curriculum development and teacher training in education.