For physical education (PE), the COVID-19 pandemic presents many challenges but also opportunities. As much of the teaching and learning in PE is based on interaction and collaboration, it has made it difficult to envisage how to approach teaching the subject. However, during the initial phase of lockdown teachers made increasing use of technology to set physical challenges in an attempt to motivate and engage pupils, and with the reopening of schools more use has been made of outdoor contexts for teaching. This article discusses how--within a Scottish context--the work of academics linked to the SERA PE network (ScotPERN) emphasises the complex nature of PE and the need for research within the area to enhance learning opportunities for pupils.