Social Justice, Equity, and Inclusion in Physical Activity: Perspectives across Diverse Populations

BackgroundInclusive and adapted physical activity has traditionally been approached through models centered on individual adaptation, often linked to the improvement of physical capacities or performance. While these approaches have contributed to increasing participation, they frequently overlook the social, cultural, pedagogical, and institutional factors that shape inclusion and exclusion within educational contexts.Emerging social perspectives challenge these models by reframing inclusive and adapted physical activity as a matter of equity and human rights, rather than merely the adaptation of content or exercises. From this standpoint, disability and functional diversity are understood as socially constructed phenomena, shaped by structural barriers, institutional practices, cultural norms, and power relations within educational spaces.Despite the growing attention to inclusive education policies, significant inequalities persist. Many individuals with disabilities continue to experience symbolic inclusion, structural exclusion, a lack of recognition of their lived experiences, and limited opportunities for meaningful participation in physical activity across school, university, and other educational settings.GoalThis Research Topic explores the transformative role of physical activity in fostering social inclusion, equity, and gender equality. We invite contributions that examine these dynamics across diverse social contexts and populations, including but not limited to: inclusive physical education, active aging, and programs tailored for people with disabilities or marginalized communities.Scope / subtopicsAbleism and stereotypes in physical educationStructural and institutional barriers to inclusive educationSymbolic versus genuine inclusion in school-based physical activityTeacher education for effective inclusionDecolonial and cultural perspectives in adapted physical activityIntersectionality and equity in physical educationInclusive curricula and pedagogical practicesEmbodied experiences and identity construction in inclusive physical activityEthics in inclusive physical education Topic editors: Antonio Muñoz Llerena, Virginia Alcaraz Rodríguez, Shamila Manie Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83027/social-justice-equity-and-inclusion-in-physical-activity-perspectives-across-diverse-populations