Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research

Predictors of cardiorespiratory endurance in martial arts athletes: A path analysis of body composition, hemoglobin, and motivation

2025-05-04T12:46:19+07:00

Background: Cardiorespiratory endurance is vital to athletic performance, particularly in sports requiring sustained physical exertion such as martial arts.

Objectives: This study examined the predictive roles of body composition (BMI), hemoglobin concentration, and motivation on cardiorespiratory endurance among university-level martial arts athletes.

Methods: Using a quantitative path analysis design, data were collected from 20 purposively selected martial arts athletes who regularly trained. Cardiorespiratory endurance was assessed via the multistage fitness test, BMI was calculated using standard anthropometric measures, hemoglobin was measured using the Harenz scale, and motivation was evaluated with a validated Likert-scale questionnaire.

Results: The analysis showed that BMI (ρ = 0.705, t = 3.071, p = 0.007) and hemoglobin concentration (ρ = 0.946, t = 4.672, p < 0.001) had significant positive effects on cardiorespiratory endurance. Motivation, however, did not have a significant direct effect (ρ = 0.087, t = 0.853, p = 0.203). Additionally, BMI correlated positively with both hemoglobin (ρ = 0.923, p < 0.001) and motivation (ρ = 0.670, p = 0.034), suggesting indirect effects through physiological mechanisms.

Conclusions: The findings underscore that physiological indicators, specifically BMI and hemoglobin, are more critical predictors of aerobic capacity than psychological factors like motivation in this athletic population. Due to sport-specific demands, these results may not be generalizable to non-martial arts athletes. Future studies should incorporate additional mediators such as training intensity and account for potential self-report bias in motivation assessments.

Development and validation of a table tennis serve skill assessment instrument for junior high school students: A psychometric approach

2025-05-02T10:06:17+07:00

Background: The highest assessment weight in physical education lessons lies in psychomotor skills. In order to find out how far the competencies possessed by students, a clear and comprehensive assessment tool or instrument is needed.

Objectives: The research aims to develop a test instrument for forehand and backhand service skills in table tennis small ball games.

Methods: The development of this instrument uses a research and development scheme, with predetermined steps (1) determining objectives, (2) analyzing literature, (3) developing specifications, (4) administering, (5) conducting tests, (6) analyzing data validity, reliability, and objectivity. The cluster sampling procedure was conducted on students aged 13-15 who met the inclusion criteria, involving junior high school students (n=80), consisting of 41 female students and 39 male students. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 11.0. The basis for decision-making is the Pearson correlation test. The analysis technique in the reliability test uses a test and retest external estimation approach.

Results: The forehand serve variable has a calculated r-value of 0.456> r-table 0.312, and the backhand serve variable obtained a calculated R-value of 0.352> r-table 0.312, so the table tennis skill instrument on that variable was declared valid. At the same time, the reliability test shows a value above 0.70; the instrument that has been prepared can be declared reliable.

Conclusions: The assessment instrument for forehand and backhand serve skills in table tennis games for junior high school students has met the validity and reliability criteria. This shows that the instrument is suitable for teachers as an objective and consistent measuring tool in evaluating basic table tennis skills in students. Recommendations for future studies are encouraged to expand the sample size and integrate digital features to enhance the scalability and objectivity of the assessment.

The relationship between limb length and lower-limb explosive power on squat-style long jump performance in junior secondary students

2025-05-14T08:35:34+07:00

Background: To determine the relationship between leg length and leg muscle explosive power with squat style long jump performance applied to junior high school students.

Objectives: This study examines the relationship between leg length, leg muscle explosive power, and the ability to jump squatting style long.

Methods: The method used is a quantitative descriptive design with a correlational study. The study population amounted to 60 male students in class VIII. Sampling using the Purposive Proportional Systematic Random Sampling technique amounted to 45 students. The collected data were analyzed using three prerequisite tests: data normality test, homogeneity test, and linearity test. After fulfilling the prerequisite test requirements, it can be continued with 4 hypothesis tests, product moment test, multiple correlation test, regression equation line, and practical contribution and relative contribution.

Results: The data obtained using inferential statistics in multiple correlation analysis is complemented by multiple regression analysis. The results of the multiple correlation test obtained a coefficient = 0.687 and Sig. P = 0.001 < a = 0.05.

Conclusions: The study concludes a positive and linear relationship between leg length and leg muscle explosive power with squat-style long jump performance. Based on these findings, further research is recommended to explore additional variables such as speed, flexibility, and confidence, which may influence squat-style long jump performance.

The relationship between arm length and body mass index (BMI) with turbo-throwing performance in elementary school students

2025-05-20T12:46:49+07:00

Background: This research is motivated by insufficient scientific research that specifically examines the relationship between arm length and Body Mass Index (BMI) on turbo throwing performance in elementary school students, especially in preparation for the National Student Sports Olympics (O2SN).

Objectives: This study examines the relationship between arm length and BMI and the turbo-throwing performance of sixth-grade students of State Elementary School Bunulrejo 1 Malang in preparation for the National Student Sports Olympics (O2SN) in 2025.

Methods: The method used is a quantitative descriptive design with a correlational study. The study population comprised 71 male students, with a sample of 45 male students. The research instrument was a turbo-throwing basic motion performance test, arm length measurement, and Body Mass Index (BMI) measurement. The analysis technique uses inferential statistics in the form of multiple correlation analysis, which is complemented by multiple regression analysis.

Results: The results were obtained using inferential statistics through multiple correlation analysis. The results of the multiple correlation test obtained a coefficient value = 0.723 and Sig. P = 0.001 < a = 0.05, and the contribution of the variable effectiveness of arm's length to turbo-throwing performance is 46.3%, while BMI is 5.9%, so the variables arm length and BMI provide an effective contribution of 52.2%.

Conclusions: Arm length and BMI significantly influence turbo-throwing performance. Arm length is the most dominant factor. These results can be a reference for teachers and coaches when selecting O2SNs and coaching athletes at the basic education level. Future researchers are expected to examine other variables that have not been studied to provide a more comprehensive picture of turbo-throwing performance.

Low-impact specialized pilates is better than low intensity steady state for increasing fitness level

2025-06-02T14:54:40+07:00

Background: Elderly individuals with disabilities often face challenges in maintaining physical fitness, highlighting the need for effective and appropriate exercise methods tailored to their limitations.

Objectives: This study compares the effectiveness of low-impact specialized Pilates and Low-Intensity Steady-State (LISS) exercise in improving fitness levels among older adults with mild to moderate disabilities. The unique advantage of Pilates in enhancing balance and core strength is presented as a novel contribution.

Methods: A quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test assessments was employed, involving 40 elderly participants with disabilities divided into two intervention groups over 8 weeks. Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on the inclusion criteria of 60–75 years with mild to moderate disabilities. Fitness levels were assessed using the Senior Fitness Test, which evaluates muscular strength, balance, flexibility, and aerobic capacity.

Results: Data analysis was conducted using the Shapiro–Wilk test, paired sample t-test, and independent sample t-test. The results demonstrated that the low-impact specialized Pilates group showed significant improvements in core strength, balance, and flexibility, whereas the LISS group exhibited greater improvements in aerobic capacity.

Conclusions: In conclusion, low-impact specialized Pilates is more effective in enhancing overall fitness among elderly individuals with disabilities. Therefore, it is recommended as a suitable exercise modality for rehabilitation and health maintenance programs to improve this population's quality of life and functional independence.

The impact of coaching communication styles and training programs on novice tennis player satisfaction: A case study from Indonesia

2025-07-05T12:19:56+07:00

Background: The satisfaction of beginner tennis players is often influenced by coaches' communication styles and the structure of training programs.

Objectives: This study analyzed the effects of coaching communication style and training program design on player satisfaction at Club First Tennis.

Methods: A quantitative, descriptive-associative approach was used with 50 beginner players in regular training sessions. Data were collected using a Likert-scale questionnaire covering coach communication style, training program design, and player satisfaction. Statistical analyses included validity and reliability tests, normality checks, and Spearman's rank correlation due to non-parametric data.

Results: Results showed strong, significant relationships between coaching communication and player satisfaction (r = 0.615, p < 0.05), as well as between training programs and satisfaction (r = 0.620, p < 0.05). These findings indicate that supportive and adaptive communication and well-structured training enhance athlete satisfaction and engagement.

Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of integrating effective communication and program planning in coaching beginner athletes. Future studies are encouraged to explore additional influencing factors such as intrinsic motivation or external support, and to involve larger sample sizes for broader generalizability.

Development and evaluation of an Android-based multimedia application to promote healthy lifestyles in physical education: A study at State Junior High School 29 Semarang

2025-07-10T11:14:59+07:00

Background: The integration of interactive, technology-based media in Physical Education, particularly for teaching health-related content, remains limited despite its potential to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

Objectives: This study aims to address this gap by developing and evaluating the effectiveness of an Android-based multimedia learning application, "Healthy Habits," designed to support the delivery of healthy lifestyle materials in Physical Education, Sports, and Health (Physical Education) subjects at the junior high school level.

Methods: The research employed a research and development (R&D) approach, involving expert validation from media and content specialists and usability trials with teachers and students.

Results: Validation results indicated a "Good" rating from the material expert (average score: 4.05) and a "Very Good" rating from the media expert (average score: 4.24), confirming the application's content quality and technical feasibility. Teacher evaluations also yielded a "Good" rating (average score: 4.07). Student trials produced positive responses, with small group testing receiving a "Very Good" rating (average score: 3.29), which increased to 4.23 ("Very Good") in large group testing. An effectiveness test assessing cognitive, affective, and psychomotor learning outcomes showed an average score of 85.6%, categorized as "Very Good." These findings demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of "Healthy Habits" as a digital learning tool for promoting healthy lifestyles in secondary school students.

Conclusions: The application offers practical value for educators and curriculum developers seeking to integrate mobile technology into Physical Education. Future studies are encouraged to explore the implementation of this application in varied educational contexts and its potential integration across other subject areas.

An analysis of anxiety levels among volleyball athletes during a provincial inter-club tournament in Jakarta, Indonesia

2025-07-10T11:14:08+07:00

Background: Competitive anxiety is a key psychological factor that can significantly affect an athlete's performance. In volleyball, high-pressure situations often lead to anxiety, potentially hindering players' ability to perform optimally.

Objectives: This study aims to assess the levels of anxiety experienced by volleyball athletes competing in the Special Capital Region Jakarta Inter-Club Provincial Championship.

Methods: A descriptive quantitative design was used, with data collected through a survey involving 70 volleyball athletes. The instrument used was a 35-item anxiety questionnaire categorized into two phases: before the match (18 items) and during the match (17 items). Responses were measured using a 5-point Likert scale. Validity testing confirmed all items were valid, and the instrument showed high reliability (α = 0.954), as analyzed using SPSS 23.

Results: During the match, 35.7% of athletes experienced high anxiety, while 64.3% showed low anxiety. Prior to the match, 44.3% reported high anxiety and 55.7% reported low anxiety. Overall, 36.6% of athletes showed high anxiety levels, while 61.4% displayed low levels. These results indicate that most athletes have relatively good emotional regulation abilities in competitive situations.

Conclusions: The study underscores the critical role of psychological readiness in athletic performance. Coaches and policymakers are encouraged to integrate structured mental training programs into athlete development. Future research should explore variables contributing to anxiety, such as playing position, competitive experience, and demographic factors like age and gender.

Improving martial arts education through gamified learning: The case of Pencak Silat with Quizizz

2025-06-14T22:05:08+07:00

Background: The use of digital media in learning is an innovative effort to improve the quality of the teaching and learning process, including in physical education, particularly in the subject of Pencak Silat

Objectives: This study aims to determine the effect of using the Quizizz application on the learning outcomes of Pencak Silat among students at Public Senior High School 1 Indralaya Selatan.

Methods: This research was conducted using a quantitative approach. The design used is a one-group pretest-posttest design. In this design, students are given a pretest before treatment, followed by a learning treatment using Quizizz media. After the treatment is completed, a posttest is administered. The population in this study consists of all 11th-grade students at Senior High School 1 Indralaya Selatan, totaling 149 students. From that population, a simple random sample of 30 students will be taken to serve as the research sample. The research instruments include a cognitive test in the form of multiple-choice questions and a psychomotor test in the form of basic pencak silat technique practice. Then the data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk normality test to ensure data distribution, followed by a paired sample t-test using IBM SPSS Statistics version 30.0.0.0 (172) software.

Results: The analysis shows a significant increase in pretest to posttest scores, both in cognitive aspects (from an average of 37.87 to 58.83) and psychomotor aspects (from an average of 5.43 to 8.70). In the paired sample t-test, the significance value showed <0.001, indicating a significant effect of Quizizz media on students' learning outcomes.

Conclusions: This research concludes that the Quizizz application effectively enhances the understanding of concepts and fundamental movement skills of pencak silat in a fun and interactive way.

Global trends of gamification in enhancing students’ social skills in physical education (2015–2025)

2025-06-25T10:08:06+07:00

Background: The development of digital technology has triggered a more interactive learning transformation through gamification, namely using game elements to increase students' motivation, engagement, and social skills, such as cooperation, communication, empathy, and problem solving.

Objectives: This study aims to analyze global research trends on gamification in enhancing students' social skills, particularly in physical education, through a bibliometric analysis from 2015 to 2025.

Methods: This study employed a bibliometric design. Data were retrived from the Scopus database on April 22, 2025, using specific keywords: (gamification OR gamified learning OR game-base-based learning) AND ("physical education" OR "PE class" OR "sport education") AND (social skills" OR "social competence" OR "social interaction") AND (elementary school" OR "primary school" OR "midle school" OR "junior high school" OR "high school" OR "secondary school" From an initial 120 documents, 47 met the inclusion criteria. VOSViewer was used to analyze keyword co-occurrence, visualize trends, and identify thematic clusters by completely counting on all keywords with at least two documents per author.

Results: 47 relevant articles were identified, with publication peaking in 2020. Keyword analysis revealed five main thematic clusters: gamification in education, digital game-based learning, collaborative learning, emerging technologies, and motivation. The most frequent keywords were game-based learning (n=12), gamification (n=9), and students (n=8). The University of Patras emerged as the most productive institution, while the leading journal was the International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research.

Conclusions: Although research on gamification has grown significantly, its application in physical education remains underexplored. This study reveals a gap in leveraging gamification to develop students' social skills in physical education. Future research should focus on integrating gamification in this context while considering sociocultural and technological factors to ensure inclusive and effective implementation.