ABSTRACT

This chapter focuses on physical activity policy and practice in the United Kingdom. The chapter includes a brief description of historical and current regional policy and an exposition of the major initiatives in the four home countries. Discussion focuses on the opportunities presented and the difficulties of achieving or maintaining sporting excellence and furthering physical activity on the public health agenda, in light of increasing devolution and conflicting regional priorities. A description of the dominant forms of physical activity in occupations, leisure and education is also given.