Personal Best Foundation Launches Research to Shape Future of Athletics-Based Social Programmes

The Personal Best Foundation is excited to announce the release of its latest research study, "Beyond the Physical: Understanding the Social Impact of Athletics on Young People." This study, conducted in collaboration with Leeds Beckett University’s Centre for Social Justice in Sport and Society, provides an essential framework to guide the Foundation’s future plans as it continues to grow and deliver transformative outcomes for disadvantaged young people through athletics.

While the findings reaffirm much of what is already understood about sport’s ability to generate positive social change, it marks a significant step for the Personal Best Foundation and athletics in England. The study is the Foundation’s first effort to examine what works specifically within athletics, committing to an insight-led approach from the outset. As a young charity—just two years old—this study underscores our commitment to being informed by evidence and best practices in shaping future programmes.

Dr. Annette Stride, lead researcher from The Carnegie School of Sport at Leeds Beckett University, emphasized the importance of the study’s findings:

"This study reinforces what we’ve long suspected—that successful athletics programmes go far beyond physical skill development. By focusing on the session climate, leadership, and how learning occurs, we can ensure these programmes deliver meaningful social impact. The Personal Best Foundation is embarking on vital work, and this research provides them with the insights needed to shape effective, evidence-based programmes. It’s not enough to simply offer opportunities; we need to be intentional about how we design and lead these initiatives to truly make a difference in the lives of young people."

Three Key Areas of Focus for Programme Success

Importantly, the research highlights three critical areas for consideration when designing athletics programmes that go beyond physical competence and deliver meaningful social impact to children and young people:

1. Session Climate: This refers to the environment created within the session. Programmes that foster a positive, fun, and inclusive atmosphere—with an emphasis on mastery and belonging—show the greatest potential for social impact.
2. Session Leadership: Having the right people leading the session is crucial. Coaches who build strong relationships with young people, demonstrate care, and act as relatable role models are key to fostering trust and engagement.
3. Delivery of Learning: The research underscores the importance of how learning occurs within these programmes. Both explicit, structured learning and the more implicit, incidental learning that happens through participation must be considered to ensure lasting impact.

In response to these findings, Personal Best Foundation Ambassadors Donna Fraser OBE OLY and Marilyn Okoro OLY have been quick to express their support: Donna Fraser expressed her enthusiasm for the research:

"This research shows the true power of athletics—it’s not just about physical performance, but about creating a safe space where young people can grow, learn, and build confidence. By focusing on the right environment and relationships, we can help young people overcome barriers and thrive both on and off the track."

Marilyn Okoro, who was particularly thrilled by the focus on leadership, drew from her experience as a life coach and mentor:

"What stands out for me from this research is the emphasis on the importance of session leadership. It’s not just about building trust, showing empathy, and being a positive and relatable role model. As a mentor, I know how crucial it is to create those connections with young people—this is where real transformation happens, when they feel seen, supported, and inspired to achieve more than they ever thought possible."

A Commitment to Thoughtful Programming

The research reaffirms that impactful programmes require careful design, clear measurement, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges young people face. It highlights that there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution, but rather that programmes need to be built with care and precision, ensuring the right climate, leadership, and learning structures are in place to achieve both athletic and social outcomes.

Amy Weaver-Tyler, Foundation Manager at Personal Best Foundation, shared her thoughts on the charity’s vision:

"We’re not claiming that the findings are revolutionary. What this research does is give us the insight and structure we need to shape our programmes with confidence, knowing what will help us deliver the most impact for children and young people. It helps us understand what we need to measure, the challenges involved, and reminds us that solutions are not always easy and require thoughtful, tailored approaches."

Looking Ahead

With this evidence-based framework in hand, the Personal Best Foundation is committed to shaping future programmes that give young people—particularly those from disadvantaged and underserved communities—the opportunity to thrive both physically and socially through athletics.

About Personal Best Foundation

Personal Best Foundation is a charity dedicated to transforming the lives of young people in England through the power of athletics. Founded in 2022, the Foundation partners with athletics clubs, schools, and community organisations to ensure all young people, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, have the chance to achieve their personal best—on the track, at school, and in life.

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“Beyond the Physical” – Research and Insights