Examining the interplay of physical literacy, learner engagement, and physical education satisfaction in fostering overall well-being

The growing emphasis on holistic student development highlights the role of physical literacy in enhancing educational and psychological outcomes. This study explored how perceived physical literacy contributes to overall well-being among university students, with learner engagement and physical education (PE) satisfaction as mediators. Using a cross-sectional design, paper-based surveys were administered in person, yielding 381 valid responses. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) tested the hypothesized model, including direct and serial mediation effects. Results showed that physical literacy significantly predicted both learner engagement and PE satisfaction. Engagement further enhanced PE satisfaction, which in turn strongly influenced overall well-being. Mediation analyses confirmed both simple and sequential pathways, demonstrating that physical literacy indirectly fosters well-being by increasing engagement and satisfaction in PE. These findings underpin the importance of meaningful PE experiences and suggest that curriculum interventions promoting physical literacy can enhance student engagement, satisfaction, and holistic development in higher education.