The importance of being physical in the middle years

Young people are physical (as are adults) and their bodies are significant in relation to who they are, what and how they learn, and who they can become. Consistent with middle schooling philosophy, but often not reflected in practice, a balanced approach to all aspects of the growth and development of young people is supported. Much research has shown the middle years is an important time assigned to 'identity development' and 'physical development' while it is also a time when many young people become less physically active and less engaged in learning at school. This paper reviews current research about physical activity, physical education and physicality in order to locate the place of the physical in the lives of young people and encourage practices in the middle years that acknowledge this physicality.