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The activity inclusion model

Looking to have a more player-centred approach at training? The activity inclusion model can help.

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England Football Learning

2 mins - Nov 10, 2025

The activity inclusion model (AIM) (fourth generation, May 2017), helps coaches really think about their players. It helps them consider what their players can do. And it gets coaches thinking about how to make sessions appropriate for everyone – whatever their needs and motivations are.


Using this tool allows coaches to put their players first and tailor training for them.
Player engagement, practice design/learning activity, intended outcomes, coach behaviour.

As a coach, it’s important you get to know your players first. Then, you can use this model to amend training to suit their needs.


The model first encourages you to consider:

  • the player’s ability
  • the activity
  • the player’s impairment
  • the setting.

This gets you thinking about the player. What are they good at? What’s the task? Do they have any additional needs? What’s the environment like for them?


After thinking about this, you can then decide on the type of activity to deliver to your players. The model shows there are four types to choose from.


Open

This type of activity has no adaptations. Everyone is in the same area, doing the same tasks.


Modified

This type of activity has adaptations which have been made to meet individual needs. Using the STEP framework (Youth Sports Trust, 2002) effectively is key to this.


Parallel

This type of activity splits everyone into teams based on ability or needs. Players work on a variation of the same practice. But the challenge is adjusted to suit each team or group.


Specific

This type of activity is where the activity itself or tasks you give are tailored based on the needs of the player. This is so they’re appropriately supported within your sessions.


If you’re interested in learning more about creating an inclusive environment, check out these resources:

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