Safety, Inclusion, and Why They Matter in Physical Activities
Peer reviewed by Dr. Barry Wiens & Scott Rollo, PhD
Think about the last time you played a game or joined a sports activity. Did you feel welcome, safe, and like you belonged? When everyone feels that way, it’s easier to have fun, try new things, and work together as a team. Safety and inclusion aren’t just rules to follow—they’re what make physical activity enjoyable and fair for everyone.
What Is Inclusion?
Inclusion means making sure no one is left out. It’s about welcoming others, respecting differences, and creating a space where everyone feels part of the group.
Examples:
Asking someone new to join your basketball game.
Offering different roles in a game, like being the timekeeper or coach, for someone who isn’t ready to play.
Changing the rules a little so more people can take part.
When we include others, everyone feels like they belong, making games more fun and fair.
What Does It Mean to Be Safe?
Safety is more than avoiding injuries (which is important!). It also means creating a place where people feel comfortable being themselves.
Safety includes:
Physical safety: Using the right equipment, warming up, and following the rules.
Emotional safety: Making sure no one is laughed at or judged for how they move or play.
When people feel safe, they are more likely to join in, try new things, and keep learning.
Why Safety and Inclusion Matter
When we care about safety and inclusion:
More people join in. It’s easier to participate when you’re not afraid of being embarrassed or left out.
Teams work better. Everyone plays a role and supports each other.
We become more understanding. We learn to notice how others feel and help them feel comfortable.
What You Can Do to Help
Here are simple ways to make games and activities safer and more inclusive:
Invite others to play. If you see someone sitting out, ask them to join.
Play fair. Follow the rules and show good sportsmanship—no blaming or teasing.
Encourage different skills. Not everyone plays the same way. Notice effort, not just talent.
Switch up roles. Try different positions or share tasks so everyone gets a chance.
Make group rules together. Create fair rules that include everyone.
Reflect & Grow
How do you feel when someone invites you to join an activity?
What’s one thing you can do this week to help someone feel welcome?
When do you feel most safe and confident during physical activity?
The Bottom Line
Inclusion and safety aren’t extras—they’re essentials. When you help others feel welcome and safe, physical activity becomes more fun, fair, and meaningful. Everyone wins—physically, emotionally, and socially.
Next time you’re playing or in gym class, ask yourself: “Am I helping this be a safe, fair space for everyone?” A small action from you can make a big difference for someone else.
References:
Lieberman, L. J., Houston-Wilson, C., & Grenier, M. (2024). Strategies for inclusion: Physical education for everyone. Human Kinetics.
Ulset, V. S., Oppici, L., Hamre, K., Rudd, J. R., Stornæs, A. V., Haraldsen, H. M., & Säfvenbom, R. (2025). Inclusion in Motion: Promoting Equitable Physical Activity and Health in Childhood and Adolescence. Children, 12(7), 942.
Shean, M., & Mander, D. (2020). Building emotional safety for students in school environments: Challenges and opportunities. Health and education interdependence: Thriving from birth to adulthood, 225-248.