What is Physical capability?
Physical capability refers to the physical skills, strength, stamina, and dexterity needed to perform a behavior. In COM-B, it is one of two types of capability and often overlooked when behaviors seem simple.
How it works
Many behavior change failures attributed to motivation are actually physical capability problems. An elderly person who stops exercising may lack balance and strength, not desire. Physical capability is addressed through training, practice, assistive devices, and adaptive modifications.
Applied example
A stroke rehabilitation patient who wants to cook independently but cannot safely hold a knife needs adaptive kitchen tools and occupational therapy, not motivational counseling.
Why it matters
Physical capability must be assessed before other COM-B components because no amount of motivation or opportunity overcomes genuine physical inability.
