At the recent North Yorkshire Sport Partnership Day, delegates came together not just to share professional insights, but to reflect personally on their own journeys with movement and sport across three key life stages: primary school, teenage years, and adulthood. The day provided the perfect opportunity to introduce delegates to the concept of Physical literacy. What emerged was a patchwork of experiences, shaped by relationships, environment, opportunity and lifestyle.
Primary School:
For many, early memories of movement were filled with play, exploration, and freedom. Whether it was chasing friends in the backfield, playing out on their bike, or joining a local football club, movement was often spontaneous and joyful. Positive influences included supportive PE teachers and access to outdoor space. Yet, some delegates recalled early barriers such as lack of confidence, limited access due to finances, or feeling embarrassed to take part in traditional sports.
Teenage Years:
The teenage years brought complexity. Sport became more competitive, and social dynamics played a bigger role such as challenges around growth and maturation. Some however did find their passion through new friendships, variety and alternative sports.Others drifted away from activity due to pressure, self-consciousness, or due to pressure from parents. Delegates highlighted the importance of choice, peer support, and non-judgmental environments in keeping young people engaged.
Adulthood:
As adults, many delegates spoke of rediscovering movement, not for competition, but for wellbeing, connection, and joy. Cycling to work, walking, or simply being active with family became meaningful ways to stay engaged. Many shared the challenges of busy schedules, health issues, or negative associations from earlier years. But the conversation also revealed it’s never too late to reconnect with movement.
What We Learned
The discussion reminded us that movement is deeply personal. Our experiences are shaped by access, encouragement, and the culture around us. By taking the time to consider the life experiences and stakeholder relationships with movement, activity and sport, we can then begin to shape opportunities into their daily routines, supporting them to connect physically, social and emotionally.
Take a look at some of the feedback and learning from our Partnership Day if you like ⬇️
