E181 ‘Embracing the Future of Children’s Physical Literacy’ with MoveAhead’s Johann Issartel

Today’s guest is  Dr. Johann Issartel, CEO and Co-Founder at MoveAhead. In the episode, Johann shares insights into his passion-driven journey to improve physical literacy among children. MoveAhead, a company deeply rooted in academic and scientific research, aims to tackle the growing issue of sedentary lifestyles in young people by blending technology with physical education.

Johann’s background as a professor at Dublin City University focused on helping children improve their physical literacy from a young age. Concerned with the increasing sedentary habits in today’s youngsters, MoveAhead develops programs designed to boost confidence and competence in physical activities. He emphasises the importance of movement, not just for finding future Olympians, but for instilling a love for physical activity in all children.

Johann discusses the worrying trend of children developing poor postures and motor skills due to prolonged periods in sedentary environments. The absence of role models only exacerbates this issue. He also points out that without correction, today’s children might face dire health outcomes, including reversing the historical trend of outliving their parents.

MoveAhead offers two main solutions to tackle this problem. Firstly, a movement assessment platform provides customised reports and insights for teachers and coaches to aid in developing appropriate physical programs. Secondly, they are creating active video games that integrate physical activity with screen time, aiming to reverse the trend of sedentary behaviour.

Johann highlights the synergy of leveraging cutting-edge machine learning models to create personalised experiences. These models adapt activities to meet children’s current capabilities, enhancing engagement and development.

The conversation also explores how AI and open-source models have transformed MoveAhead’s approach. By utilising powerful existing technologies, MoveAhead refines its ability to deliver educational yet entertaining solutions. The focus remains on collecting clean, unbiased data to tailor individualised growth pathways.

MoveAhead’s mission stretches beyond the typical consumer market. Collaborating with different sports brands and sports organisations, they aim to expand their reach and impact, ensuring children globally benefit from enhanced physical literacy programs. The company remains dedicated to empowering educators while providing schools with assessment tools to track and improve children’s motor skill proficiencies.

Recognising the needs of children with disabilities, MoveAhead adapts its solutions accordingly. From upper body models for children in wheelchairs to tailored programs for those with intellectual disabilities, their comprehensive approach ensures inclusivity.

Johann also speaks passionately about MoveAhead’s roadmap, highlighting partnerships with sports brands and educational systems as key to reaching their goals. The focus is steadfast on increasing involvement at grassroots levels and retaining engagement through motivating, tailored experiences.

In conclusion, this episode opens a window into the future of how technology can significantly impact children’s health and development through improved physical literacy. Johann’s efforts with MoveAhead exemplify how academic expertise can be translated into products that benefit society. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our lives, companies like MoveAhead illustrate how it can be wielded as a force for good.