Groundbreaking Study Explores Physical Literacy Across the Lifespan

CUPEST is proud to announce the presentation of a major research project led by Professor Dr. David Grecic (Chair of the CUPEST Organising Committee and Project Director of the HNNU/University of Central Lancashire Joint Programme in Sport and Physical Education) and Ivan Curovic (University of Central Lancashire) at the 19th FIEPS Europe Congress, held in Antalya, Turkey, from April 24–27, 2025. The event marked the 102nd anniversary of the International Federation of Physical Education and Sport (FIEPS).

The study, conducted in collaboration with CUPEST, examined how physical literacy is interpreted and applied across different life stages—from childhood through adulthood. Drawing on three in-depth studies, the research involved 56 Serbian professionals, including experienced PE teachers, elite personal trainers, and recent university graduates in Sport and PE. A total of 1,091 qualitative data units were analyzed to generate new insights into how physical literacy is understood and implemented in practice.

Key findings revealed that while PE teachers lacked formal familiarity with the term “physical literacy,” but they could describe its core concepts. However, their teaching often reflected structured, teacher-led practices, inconsistent with holistic pedagogical models. In contrast, personal trainers demonstrated full alignment with person-centred, lifelong engagement strategies. Meanwhile, recent graduates expressed strong philosophical support for physical literacy but displayed conceptual uncertainty.

The study underscores the importance of student-teacher and trainer-client relationships in shaping positive physical activity behaviors. It advocates for cross-sector professional development to strengthen the promotion of physical literacy across educational and fitness domains.

This research reinforces CUPEST’s commitment to advancing evidence-based approaches in physical education, sport, and health promotion.