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An analysis of anxiety levels among volleyball athletes during a provincial inter-club tournament in Jakarta, Indonesia
Rea Rizkita Raga1, Yunita Lasma21. Universitas Islam 45 Bekasi , ID2. Universitas Islam 45 Bekasi , ID2025-07-27|page 175-185AbstractBackground: 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.
APA Citation StyleRaga, R. R. , & Lasma, Y. (2025). An analysis of anxiety levels among volleyball athletes during a provincial inter-club tournament in Jakarta, Indonesia. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 175-185. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.605 -
Performance anxiety among student table tennis players
Yumna Wahyuningsih1, Ibnu Fatkhu Royana2, Galih Dwi Pradipta31. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID3. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2025-12-18|page 318-331AbstractBackground: Anxiety is a common psychological factor that significantly affects athletic performance, especially in competitive settings. Student-athletes face dual pressures from academic responsibilities and athletic commitments, making them vulnerable to performance anxiety that can impair focus, concentration, and decision-making.
Objectives: This study aims to analyze performance anxiety among table tennis athletes in the Student Activity Unit (UKM) of Universitas PGRI Semarang and to examine differences in performance evaluation outcomes based on sources from internal and external factors.
Methods: A comparative quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach was used. Fifty athletes participated (n=25 assessed by internal factors, n=25 assessed by external factors). Anxiety/performance was measured using a self-report questionnaire consisting of 15 Likert-scale items (1-5 scale) validated by three sport psychology experts. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA after confirming normality (Shapiro-Wilk test) and homogeneity (Levene's test).
Results: The internal group had a higher mean score (M = 3.64, SD = 0.86) compared to the external group (M = 3.07, SD = 0.86). ANOVA revealed a statistically significant difference, F(1,48) = 4.92, p = 0.031, η² = 0.093, with an estimated Cohen's d of approximately 0.66, indicating a medium effect size. These findings indicate that anxiety factors affect athletes' performance, with internal factors tending to score higher than external factors.
Conclusions: This study concludes that anxiety affects the performance of table tennis athletes in the Student Activity Unit (UKM) at Universitas PGRI Semarang. Specifically, internal factors such as self-confidence and perfectionism have been proven to have a greater impact than external factors.APA Citation StyleWahyuningsih, Y. , Royana, I. F. , & Pradipta, G. D. (2025). Performance anxiety among student table tennis players. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 318-331. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i3.618 -
Fun game–based learning improves gross motor skills in early primary school children
Ahmad Muttaqin Darussalam1, Sugiharto Sugiharto2, Sapto Adi31. State University of Malang , ID2. State University of Malang , ID3. State University of Malang , ID2025-11-23|page 236-249AbstractBackground: Children who face difficulties in gross motor skill development may withdraw from physical activities, experience low self-esteem, and suffer from social anxiety. Physical education plays a vital role in fostering gross motor development, especially when delivered through enjoyable and engaging activities such as fun games.
Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the impact of fun game–based learning on the development of gross motor skills in early primary school children.
Methods: The study employed a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group. A total of 36 second-grade students from SDIT Mutiara Hati in Malang participated in this study. Participants were assigned to one of three groups: a control group, a group-based fun games intervention, and an individual-based fun games intervention. The interventions were implemented three times a week for 30 minutes over a period of seven weeks. Gross motor skills were measured before and after the intervention using the Test of Gross Motor Development–Third Edition (TGMD-3), a reliable and validated instrument. Data were analyzed using homogeneity and normality tests, paired-sample t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Tukey's HSD post hoc tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05 (SPSS version 25).
Results: Both the individual and group fun game–based learning interventions produced significant improvements in gross motor skills compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Moreover, a significant difference was found between the two intervention types, indicating that the mode of fun game delivery influences outcomes (p < 0.05).
Conclusions: Fun game–based learning, whether delivered individually or in groups, effectively enhances gross motor skills among early primary school children. Additionally, individual fun game–based learning demonstrated a significantly greater improvement compared to group-based learning.APA Citation StyleDarussalam, A. M. , Sugiharto, S. , & Adi, S. (2025). Fun game–based learning improves gross motor skills in early primary school children. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 236-249. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i3.613 -
A critical analysis of the disconnection between science and practice in weight training
Ferdinando Cereda11. The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan , IT2025-04-07|page 46-59AbstractBackground: Resistance training (RT) has emerged as a powerful tool for health promotion, with substantial scientific evidence supporting its beneficial effects across multiple physiological systems and psychological domains. Despite this robust knowledge base, a significant disconnection persists between scientific evidence and practical implementation in both clinical and everyday settings.
Objectives: This study aims to critically examine this science-practice gap by analyzing common misconceptions surrounding RT and proposing strategies to enhance knowledge translation.
Methods: Through a narrative review of scientific literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, the research synthesizes evidence regarding RT's scientifically validated benefits, prevalent myths, and effective communication approaches.
Results: Findings show a concerning lack of scientific awareness among practitioners and end-users. Persistent misconceptions, such as "RT reduces flexibility" and "plant-based proteins are inferior for muscle hypertrophy," continue to circulate despite contradictory evidence.
Conclusions: Improved scientific communication via targeted educational programs, digital platforms, and collaboration between researchers and policymakers is urgently needed to bridge this gap and maximize RT’s public health impact.
APA Citation StyleCereda, F. (2025). A critical analysis of the disconnection between science and practice in weight training. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 46-59. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i1.499 -
Immunity to rhythm: Visual or auditory stimuli during intense aerobic exertion do not modulate the mood of young adults
Flavio de Souza Araujo1, Camila Maria Menezes Almeida2, Mariana Ferreira de Souza3, Marcelo Magalhães Sales4, José Fernando Vila Nova de Moraes51. Federal University of Vale do São Francisco , BR2. Federal University of Vale do São Francisco , BR3. Federal University of Vale do São Francisco , BR4. State University of Goiás , BR5. Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF) , BR2026-04-26|page 160-171AbstractBackground: High-intensity aerobic exercise can promote higher energy expenditure when compared to low and moderate-intensity exercise. However, vigorous exercise can negatively influence mood responses related to adherence. Auditory and audiovisual resources have been used to improve psychological variables during and after exercise.
Objectives: To analyze the influence of listening to music and watching video clips on mood responses of young adults after a high-intensity aerobic exercise session.
Methods: This is a Cross-Sectional Randomized Controlled Study in which fourteen male participants (23.4 ± 3.1 years; 26.2 ± 3.4 kg/m²) randomly performed exercise sessions on a cyclergometer, at an intensity of 10% above anaerobic threshold, in three situations: control (C), listening to music (M), and watching video clips (VC). At the end of each session, participants underwent 30 min of passive recovery. Mood responses were measured using Brunel’s Mood Scale (BRUMS) before exercise, immediately after exercise, and after recovery. Friedman’s and Wilcoxon’s tests were used, with a significance level of 5%.
Results: No statistical differences were found between conditions (C, C, and VC) for the dimensions confusion, fatigue, anger, tension, and vigor (p>0.05). A statistically significant difference was found for depression before exercise, with M higher than C and VC (p<0.05); however, no differences were observed after exercise or recovery.
Conclusions: Listening to music and/or watching video clips does not influence mood responses in young adults after high-intensity aerobic exercise on a cyclergometer.
APA Citation StyleAraujo, F. D. S. , Almeida, C. M. M. , Souza, M. F. D. , Sales, M. M. , & Moraes, J. F. V. N. D. (2026). Immunity to rhythm: Visual or auditory stimuli during intense aerobic exertion do not modulate the mood of young adults. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 160-171. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i1.702 -
Improving physical self-perception and health-related fitness through gamification in physical education: A cluster randomized controlled trial
Ferdinando Cereda11. The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan , IT2026-03-08|page 7-27AbstractBackground: The global decline in adolescent physical activity necessitates pedagogical innovation to counter disengagement. Traditional norm-referenced physical education (PE) often alienates less skilled students, whereas gamification offers a promising criterion-referenced strategy to enhance motivation and learning.
Objectives: This study investigated the efficacy of a 12-week gamified didactic intervention on perceived physical self-concept, health-related fitness, and physical activity enjoyment among high school students.
Methods: A two-arm, parallel-group, cluster randomized controlled trial (Cluster-RCT) was conducted with 210 Italian adolescents (mean age 15.4 ± 0.9 years) nested within 10 intact classes (average cluster size = 21). Intact classes were randomised to an experimental group (gamified ‘MoveQuest’ module, k = 5) or a control group (traditional direct instruction, k = 5). Data were collected using the Revised Physical Self-Perception Profile (PSPP-R-IT), the ALPHA-FIT test battery, and the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES). Following a per-protocol analytical approach, Linear mixed models (LMMs) were employed to analyse the data, accounting for the nested structure of the educational setting and handling cluster-level variance intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Significance levels were interpreted considering the multiplicity of outcomes.
Results: Significant group × time interactions were observed, with the gamified group demonstrating superior improvements in sports competence (d = 0.65), physical self-worth (d = 0.58), and enjoyment (d = 0.82) compared to the control group. Physiologically, the experimental group showed significantly greater gains in cardiorespiratory fitness (V̇O₂ max) and agility, while body attractiveness remained stable in both groups.
Conclusions: Gamified didactics significantly enhance psychological engagement and specific motor performance parameters by prioritising individual progress over social comparison. This approach represents a valuable pedagogical tool for fostering physical literacy in secondary PE.APA Citation StyleCereda, F. (2026). Improving physical self-perception and health-related fitness through gamification in physical education: A cluster randomized controlled trial. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 7-27. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i1.677 -
The impact of coaching communication styles and training programs on novice tennis player satisfaction: A case study from Indonesia
Mohammad Aldi Zakaria1, Limpad Nurrachmad21. State University of Semarang , ID2. State University of Semarang , ID2025-07-17|page 152-161AbstractBackground: 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.
APA Citation StyleZakaria, M. A. , & Nurrachmad, L. (2025). The impact of coaching communication styles and training programs on novice tennis player satisfaction: A case study from Indonesia. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 152-161. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.603 -
Psychosocial predictors of academic achievement in physical education among Indonesian university students: Testing the mediating role of mental toughness
Muhad Fatoni1, Agam Akhmad Syaukani2, Pungki Indarto3, Imron Nugroho Saputro4, Ismi Husniyah Musyfiroh51. Muhammadiyah University of Surakarta , ID2. University of Technology Malaysia , MY3. Muhammadiyah University of Surakarta , ID4. Muhammadiyah University of Surakarta , ID5. Muhammadiyah University of Surakarta , ID2025-12-12|page 291-301AbstractBackground: Academic performance in this context is conceptualized holistically, encompassing the integration of cognitive, affective, psychomotor, and physical achievements. Grounded in Self-Determination Theory and Social Cognitive Theory, the study posits that physical activity interest and social skills serve as predictors of both mental toughness and academic outcomes.
Objectives: This study examines the mediating role of mental toughness in the relationship between physical activity interest, social skills, and academic performance among university students enrolled in physical education programs.
Methods: A quantitative approach was employed, involving the administration of structured questionnaires to 235 active students. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling with a Partial Least Squares approach to assess construct validity and the relationships among variables.
Results: The results reveal that interest in physical activity and social skills has a significant influence on both mental toughness and academic performance. However, mental toughness did not serve as a substantial mediator within the proposed model.
Conclusions: These findings underscore the critical direct roles of affective and social factors in predicting academic success in physical education contexts. Theoretically, this study clarifies the functional position of mental toughness, while practically, it promotes the development of instructional strategies that enhance intrinsic motivation and collaborative skills within physical education curricula.APA Citation StyleFatoni, M. , Syaukani, A. A. , Indarto, P. , Saputro, I. N. , & Musyfiroh, I. H. (2025). Psychosocial predictors of academic achievement in physical education among Indonesian university students: Testing the mediating role of mental toughness. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 291-301. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i3.624 -
Motor activity and foreign language learning in preschool: A review of movement-based and total physical response interventions
Manuela Valentini1, Nausicaa Simone2, Alessandro Beretta31. Department of Humanities, University of Urbino Carlo Bo , IT2. Department of Humanities, University of Urbino Carlo Bo , IT3. Department of Humanities, University of Urbino Carlo Bo , IT2026-04-02|page 93-105AbstractBackground: Movement may support early foreign-language learning through embodied learning, but the preschool evidence base is fragmented.
Objective: To review empirical studies on movement-based and Total Physical Response (TPR) interventions for foreign-language learning in preschool children.
Method: This study employed a systematic review design based on PRISMA 2020 guidelines, involving database searches and citation tracking to identify empirical studies on movement-based and Total Physical Response (TPR) interventions in preschool foreign-language learning. Studies were screened using predefined eligibility criteria and appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Data from eligible studies were extracted and synthesized narratively due to methodological heterogeneity.
Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Across stronger controlled studies, semantically integrated movement generally produced more favorable vocabulary and verbal memory outcomes than sedentary teaching or less integrated movement. Evidence focused specifically on TPR was positive in terms of engagement and short-term learning, but methodologically heterogeneous and less robust.
Conclusion: Current preschool evidence supports the promise of integrated movement-based language teaching, particularly when movement is tightly aligned with instructional content. However, the evidence base remains small, largely limited to vocabulary-related outcomes, and further rigorous preschool trials are needed to clarify optimal implementation and the distinct contribution of TPR.APA Citation StyleValentini, M. , Simone, N. , & Beretta, A. (2026). Motor activity and foreign language learning in preschool: A review of movement-based and total physical response interventions. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 93-105. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i1.694












