Physical Literacy as a Journey

Physical literacy (PL) is best understood as a lifelong, non-linear journey unique to everyone. This chapter explores how PL develops across different life stages, from early childhood through older adulthood, emphasising its fluid and holistic nature. The journey metaphor captures how motivation, confidence, competence, and understanding evolve through personal experiences, cultural influences, social interactions, and environmental opportunities. Early movement experiences lay the foundation, whilst adolescence and adulthood bring new challenges and adaptations. Later life focuses on sustaining physical activity for health and well-being. Two life histories illustrate how positive and negative experiences shape engagement over time, demonstrating that PL is not a fixed destination but an ongoing process of growth and development. The chapter highlights influences and influencers, the importance of supportive environments, holistic consideration, and reflective practice in fostering lifelong PL and PL-informed practice.