Many physical education curriculum frameworks include statements about the inclusion of critical inquiry processes and the development of creativity and problem-solving skills. The learning environment created by physical education can encourage or limit the application and development of the learners' cognitive resources for critical and creative thinking. This article presents the argument for critical and creative thinking in physical education, and then describes and explains pedagogical perspectives and teaching tools that foster student inquiry, creativity and problem solving in physical education. The ideas and examples presented are consistent with the expectations of contemporary curricula frameworks, such as the SHAPE America National Standards for K-12 Physical Education, the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program, and the Australian Curriculum for Health and Physical Education.