Traditional games have gained renewed interest as a culturally relevant and engaging strategy to combat rising sedentary lifestyles among adolescents. This paper examines how integrating traditional games into physical education curricula can promote physical literacy—encompassing motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge, and understanding—to encourage lifelong participation in physical activity. Drawing on evidence from intervention studies and cross-cultural research, the paper highlights the multidimensional benefits of traditional games, including improved motor skills, enhanced social connectedness, and positive attitudes toward movement. Recommendations are provided for educators and policymakers seeking to leverage traditional play as an accessible and sustainable means to reduce sedentary behavior and support adolescent health.

Traditional games, physical literacy, adolescents

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