Rethinking PE: How Technology Is Transforming Physical Education for the Better

There’s a quiet revolution happening in schools and it’s not just in STEM or the English block. Physical Education, long stereotyped as “just sport”, is undergoing a serious transformation. And leading the charge? Teachers who are open-minded, curious and ready to rethink what a PE classroom can and should look like in 2025.

Recently on The PDHPE & CAFS Podcast, we were joined by none other than Jarrod Robinson, internationally known as The PE Geek, to explore how technology is evolving PE practice, redefining assessment and unlocking more human-centred learning in practical spaces. With over 35 countries under his belt, a global learning platform (Connected PE) and dozens of innovative tools under development, Jarrod’s insights offer powerful direction for where PE is headed next.

From PE Teacher to Global EdTech Leader

Jarrod started his journey in the classroom back in 2007, pre-smartphones, pre-AI and definitely pre-ChatGPT. What began as a personal blog to reflect on teaching grew into a global community of educators, workshops across continents and eventually, a professional learning hub for Health and PE teachers everywhere.

His mission? Make tech meaningful. And that starts with one key idea:

“If you’re not redefining the task with tech, you’re probably not improving it."

What’s Holding PE Teachers Back?

Let’s call it out: tech in PE has had its fair share of sceptics. But Jarrod reminds us that a lack of meaningful integration often stems from the way technology was introduced. In the past we had:

• 🖥️ Computer labs that were miles from the gym
• 📸 Bulky video cameras with weeks-long turnaround time
• 🧍‍♂️ Limited professional learning that focused on the tool not the pedagogy

Now? We have mobile devices, one-tap replay apps, live feedback loops and AI-powered lesson planning tools at our fingertips.

So what’s stopping us?

For many, it’s mindset.

The real barrier isn’t budget or bandwidth, it’s whether teachers are willing to evolve. Jarrod shared that while many schools have incredible facilities and devices, the true differentiator is the teacher. Those who remain curious, reflective and open to change are creating the most impactful learning experiences regardless of postcode or funding.

Practical Tech That Makes a Real Difference

If you’re wondering where to start, Jarrod doesn’t suggest jumping into AI or buying new gear. Start with what you already have, your smartphone and a free instant replay app.

Here’s a quick example:

• Traditional peer assessment = observation and a paper checklist
• Enhanced peer assessment = students watch a ten-second loop of their own performance, reflect with a peer then record feedback
• Outcome? Better reflection, clearer feedback, stronger learning

This isn't tech for tech’s sake, it’s pedagogy amplified.

AI in PE: It’s Already Happening

AI is no longer the future, it’s the present. Jarrod and his Connected PE team are developing tools that are already transforming teacher workflows, including:

• AI-powered lesson generators tailored to movement outcomes
• Automated team builders, assessment checklists and Game Sense card creators
• Tools that use data to help you respond more purposefully to your class’s needs in real time

And the best part? These tools are designed not to replace teachers but to free them up to do more of the work that actually matters: connecting with students, building relationships and improving practice

The Role of the PE Teacher is Evolving

One of the most powerful messages from this episode is that PE isn’t just sport, and the gym is as much a classroom as any other space in your school

“We’re not just delivering content anymore—we’re inspiring learning, building humans and adapting education for a new generation.”

If we embrace technology as a support not a threat, we open up more time to be reflective, creative and genuinely present with our students. That’s not less human. That’s more human

Final Takeaways for PDHPE Teachers

1. Start small You don’t need the latest tech, just a device, a plan and a purpose
2. Focus on redefinition If tech doesn’t change the how or why, reconsider using it
3. Stay curious The most impactful teachers are lifelong learners too
4. Let AI do the admin Save your energy for building relationships and delivering powerful learning
5. Transform your space A projector in your practical area could change everything

Ready to Future-Proof Your PE Program?

Explore Jarrod’s tools and teacher resources at connectedpe.com or connect with him on LinkedIn to join the global conversation on what’s next in Health and PE.

The truth is, tech in PE is no longer optional. If we want to prepare students for the world they’re entering, not the one we grew up in. It’s time to lean in, experiment and lead the change

Your students are ready.

Are you?
Listen to the full Podcast Episode with Jarrod here: www.thelearnnet.com/135