From September 4th to 6th, the entire consortium of Moving for Health project gathered in Umeå, Sweden, hosted by our Swedish partner, Change the Game. As a knowledge center that pioneers sustainable social development, Change the Game emphasizes the importance of enhancing the quality of movement experiences in diverse environments. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, thought leaders, and practitioners from across Europe to discuss the next steps in the development of the MOVING for Health Model—a comprehensive framework designed to promote physical literacy (PL) and health literacy (HL) across different settings.

Day 1: Research insights and development of online training tools

The meeting kicked off with a presentation from EUPEA and the Faculty of Human Kinetics (FMH, Univeristy of Lisbon), detailing their research and mapping efforts. This pivotal study explored current resources, strategies, and initiatives for the successful implementation of PL and HL across four key settings: schools, sports clubs, health centers, and local communities. The comprehensive research will soon be available on our website, offering valuable insights for stakeholders who are passionate about advancing physical and health literacy in their respective settings.

The discussions then shifted to development of an online training tool tailored to four settings and primary target groups. This tool aims to foster a deep understanding of the goals, principles, and components of the MOVING for Health Model. By integrating feedback and innovative ideas from experts in the room, we took significant strides toward creating a practical, accessible resource that will empower educators, coaches, and community leaders.

Day 1 Highlight: Study Visit to IKSU Sport

A highlight of the first day was the visit to IKSU Sport, a world-class sports facility in Umeå. Offering over 50 activities for both adults and children, IKSU is a shining example of inclusive and dynamic physical education. During the visit, Grim, one of our hosts, led us through a series of physical literacy-based activities. His hands-on approach demonstrated how even simple adjustments to warm-ups and games can foster inclusion, ensuring that participants of all physical abilities feel comfortable and engaged.

This study visit was a powerful reminder of the practical applications of our work, showing how the principles of physical literacy can be seamlessly integrated into everyday activities to promote lifelong engagement in movement.

Day 2: Exploring Early Childhood Physical Literacy

On the second day, we had the pleasure of visiting Ejderdunet preschool, one of Sweden's early adopters of using Physical Literacy as a compass. The school’s commitment to fostering movement skills in children, both indoors and outdoors, was inspiring. As we toured the facility, it was clear that physical literacy is not just a program or an initiative—it is a mindset that permeates every aspect of their approach to early childhood education.

The staff spoke passionately about the challenges of shifting the mindset of teachers and parents toward the importance of physical activity. Their work exemplifies how physical literacy can be successfully implemented in community settings, offering children the opportunity to develop essential movement skills while fostering a lifelong love for physical activity.

Moving Forward: Next Steps for the MOVING for Health Model

This two-day meeting in Umeå was a resounding success, providing us with invaluable insights and actionable strategies for the continued development of the MOVING for Health Model. It was a unique opportunity for the project partners to come together, share knowledge, and refine our approach to promoting physical and health literacy in diverse environments. As we move forward, we are more committed than ever to advancing sustainable social development by enhancing the quality of movement experiences for people of all ages. 

Stay tuned for the upcoming release of successful implementation of Physical Literacy and Health Literacy research on our website, and join us as we continue to pave the way for healthier, more active communities across Europe.