Beyond the Physical: Understanding the Social Impact of Athletics on Young People
Insight-led research shaping the future of athletics-based social programmes.
Welcome to the Personal Best Foundation’s dedicated page for our latest research, "Beyond the Physical: Understanding the Social Impact of Athletics on Young People." In collaboration with Leeds Beckett University’s Centre for Social Justice in Sport and Society, this study delves into the transformative role that athletics programmes play in fostering social change and community well-being. By focusing on key elements such as session climate, leadership, and learning delivery, our research provides valuable insights that will guide our future initiatives and strengthen our commitment to empowering young people through sport.
Key Insights from the Research
What the Research Tells Us
Explore the key findings from our latest research below.
This study offers an essential framework for creating athletics programmes that deliver social impact alongside physical competence. It highlights three critical elements—session climate, session leadership, and the delivery of learning - that are critical for developing impactful programmes.
The full report is available for download at the end of the page, so be sure to scroll down to access it after reviewing these headline insights.
Creating positive, inclusive environments that prioritise fun, mastery, and a sense of belonging is crucial. The right session climate fosters engagement and creates the conditions necessary for social and developmental outcomes.
Effective leadership is central to the success of any programme. Coaches who build trust, act as role models, and establish meaningful relationships with young people help create safe spaces for development, both on and off the field.
Learning occurs both explicitly—through structured activities—and implicitly, as young people develop life skills like communication and resilience. Programmes must cater to both, ensuring learning happens in ways that can lead to lasting impact.
Contextual Factors:
Every group of young people is different, and the research highlights the importance of adapting programmes to meet the unique social and environmental contexts of the communities served. What works in one area may not work in another, so thoughtful consideration of local factors is key to success.
Social, Developmental, and Sporting Outcomes:
The research identifies a range of outcomes that can be achieved when the right factors are in place, including:
- Social Well-being: Developing friendships, feeling valued, and building social capital.
- Developmental Growth: Improving emotional resilience, self-esteem, and communication skills.
- Sporting Competence: Gaining physical literacy, acquiring sports-specific skills, and increasing physical activity levels.
Explore Our Theory of Change
Our Framework for Lasting Impact
Our evidence-based Theory of Change is central to how we design and measure the success of our programmes.
Research Reports
Download Our Full Research and Insights
Dive deeper into the findings and recommendations from the study.
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