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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 -
Unveiling the digital gym: A phenomenological dive into online physical education pedagogy
Princes Lloyda Peralta11. Saint Louis College , PH2025-04-04|page 15-31AbstractBackground: The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid shift to online learning, posing significant challenges for traditionally hands-on subjects like Physical Education (PE). Limited student engagement, digital accessibility issues, and the need for pedagogical adaptation became major concerns for PE instructors.
Objectives: This study aims to explore the lived experiences of PE instructors in adapting to online instruction, identifying the strategies, challenges, and innovations they employed to maintain instructional effectiveness.
Methods: A qualitative research design utilizing Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was adopted to gain deep insights into instructors’ experiences. Purposive sampling was used to select seven PE instructors from urban and rural institutions, ensuring diverse teaching contexts. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and thematic analysis was conducted to identify key adaptation strategies.
Results: Five major themes emerged from the findings: (1) Adaptation to Online Instruction, where instructors restructured their teaching approaches to accommodate digital platforms; (2) Effective Use of Digital Tools, emphasizing the role of online resources in enhancing instructional delivery; (3) Innovative Approaches to Engagement, detailing gamification techniques and interactive pedagogies; (4) Equitable Access Strategies, addressing disparities in internet connectivity and learning resources; and (5) Assessment of Success and Progress, highlighting novel evaluation methods tailored for online PE instruction. These themes collectively form the "Navigating Instructional Delivery Through Innovation, Technology, Engagement, and Equity" framework.
Conclusions: The study provides valuable insights into how PE instructors have innovatively adapted to online learning, ensuring student engagement and equitable access to education. The findings offer implications for policy-making, teacher training programs, and the future integration of technology in PE instruction. Future research should explore student perspectives and the long-term impact of digital PE on learning outcomes.
APA Citation StylePeralta, P. L. (2025). Unveiling the digital gym: A phenomenological dive into online physical education pedagogy. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 15-31. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i1.474 -
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 -
Teaching personal and social responsibility: An analysis of TPSR-based behaviors in physical education
Rama Adha Septiana1, Tite Juliantine21. Indonesia University of Education , ID2. Indonesia University of Education , ID2025-12-30|page 332-343AbstractBackground: The rapid growth of online gaming among students has raised concerns regarding behavioral regulation, responsibility, and social interaction in educational contexts.
Objectives: This study aims to systematically review empirical research on the Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility (TPSR) model and student behavioral outcomes, and to explore its potential implications for online gaming and digital behavior contexts.
Methods: A literature review was conducted using SAGE Journals and Taylor & Francis Online databases, selected due to their strong coverage of peer-reviewed research relevant to physical education and pedagogy. The search covered publications from 2014 to 2024 using the keywords “TPSR” AND “student” AND “behavior” AND (“online game” OR “gaming”). Inclusion criteria were: (1) peer-reviewed international journal articles, (2) empirical or review studies addressing TPSR and student behavior, (3) student populations, and (4) publication within the last ten years. Articles that did not explicitly address TPSR-based behavioral outcomes were excluded. From 43 initial records, 4 articles met the inclusion criteria and were synthesized using narrative synthesis.
Results: The included studies primarily focused on TPSR implementation in physical education contexts, emphasizing behavioral responsibility, psychosocial mechanisms, and pedagogical approaches. Of the four studies, two employed quasi-experimental designs, one used survey methods, and one adopted a literature review approach. Overall, the findings indicate that TPSR-based learning is associated with improvements in personal and social responsibility, positive behavior regulation, and supportive learning climates, although direct evidence linking TPSR to online gaming behavior remains limited.
Conclusions: The findings suggest that TPSR offers a promising pedagogical framework for fostering responsible behavior and social regulation among students in the digital era.APA Citation StyleSeptiana, R. A. , & Juliantine, T. (2025). Teaching personal and social responsibility: An analysis of TPSR-based behaviors in physical education. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 332-343. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i3.647 -
Development and evaluation of a web-based interactive flashcard tool (Aero’Zen) for low-impact rhythmic activity instruction in physical education
Zenny Ni'matul Ulya1, Donny Anhar Fahmi2, Ibnu Fatkhu Royana31. Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Social Sciences and Physical Education, Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2. Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Social Sciences and Physical Education, Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID3. Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Social Sciences and Physical Education, Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2026-08-31|page 233-247AbstractBackground: Teaching rhythmic activities in physical education continues to face challenges due to the limited availability of visual learning aids that demonstrate movements systematically, repeatedly, and accessibly.
Objectives: This study aimed to develop and evaluate Aero’Zen, a web-based interactive flashcard tool integrating movement illustrations, QR codes, and demonstration videos for basic low-impact rhythmic activities.
Methods: This research and development study employed the ADDIE model. Following product development and expert validation, learning outcomes were evaluated using a one-group pretest–posttest pre-experimental design involving 30 tenth-grade students at SMK Negeri 2 Semarang. Product feasibility was assessed by media experts, subject matter experts, and a physical education practitioner. Pretest and posttest scores were analyzed using the Shapiro–Wilk test for normality and paired-samples t-tests, with the significance level set at α = .05.
Results: Aero’Zen was rated highly suitable by media experts (95.75%), subject matter experts (94.50%), and a physical education practitioner (88.75%). Mean scores increased from 75.40 to 89.97 in the cognitive domain, from 28.80 to 32.77 in the affective domain, and from 19.87 to 32.00 in the psychomotor domain. Paired-samples t-tests revealed significant differences between pretest and posttest scores across all three domains (all p < .001).
Conclusions: Aero’Zen is a highly suitable web-based learning medium with the potential to support students’ cognitive, affective, and psychomotor learning outcomes, including movement coordination and performance, in low-impact rhythmic activities. Its integrated flashcards, QR-code access, and demonstration videos provide a flexible resource for repeated and independent learning. Future studies should use randomized controlled trials with larger and more diverse samples to strengthen causal inference and generalizability.
APA Citation StyleUlya, Z. N. , Fahmi, D. A. , & Royana, I. F. (2026). Development and evaluation of a web-based interactive flashcard tool (Aero’Zen) for low-impact rhythmic activity instruction in physical education. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 233-247. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v5i2.761 -
Global trends of gamification in enhancing students’ social skills in physical education (2015–2025)
Rajip Mustafillah Rusdiyanto1, Ari Wibowo Kurniawan21. State University of Malang , ID2. State University of Malang , ID2025-07-01|page 125-138AbstractBackground: 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.
APA Citation StyleRusdiyanto, R. M. , & Kurniawan, A. W. (2025). Global trends of gamification in enhancing students’ social skills in physical education (2015–2025). Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 125-138. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.598 -
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
Galang Yusuf Pujiyanto1, Ibnu Fatkhu Royana2, Muh. Isna Nurdin Wibisana31. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID3. Universitas PGRI Semarang , ID2025-07-23|page 162-174AbstractBackground: 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.
APA Citation StylePujiyanto, G. Y. , Royana, I. F. , & Wibisana, M. I. N. (2025). 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. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 162-174. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.607 -
Low-impact specialized pilates is better than low intensity steady state for increasing fitness level
Laily Mita Andriana1, Kunjung Ashadi2, Fransisca Januarumi Marhaendra Wijaya3, Muhamad Fauzi Antoni41. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID2. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID3. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID4. Universitas Negeri Surabaya , ID2025-07-13|page 139-151AbstractBackground: 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.
APA Citation StyleAndriana, L. M. , Ashadi, K. , Wijaya, F. J. M. , & Antoni, M. F. (2025). Low-impact specialized pilates is better than low intensity steady state for increasing fitness level. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 139-151. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v4i2.575 -
Coping Strategies of Students in the Online Teaching and Learning of Physical Education
Davidsol Mendoza11. Batangas State University , PH2023-04-20|page 10-25AbstractBackground: The emergence of Covid-19 pandemic has brought a lot of changes in the educational system of the country. As the new normal of teaching and learning arose, challenges did the same. There are the teachers and students who must adopt certain adjustments to cope up with the implications of online classroom just to acquire knowledge and reach the target learning without freezing the education.
Objectives: This study was conducted with the purpose of determining the problems encountered and the coping strategies of the students in the online teaching and learning of Physical Education.
Methods: This study is a descriptive quantitative type of research. Participants were 255 randomly selected students of PE 103-Individual and Dual Sports. In collection of data needed, the researchers utilized a survey questionnaire that contained questions about student’s experiences, students coping strategies, and problems encountered by the students in the online teaching teaching and learning of Physical Education.
Results: The results shows that most of the students strongly agreed with the instruction and assessment utilized by their PE instructors; in terms of students coping strategies, most of the students shows less interest in performing physical activities during online classes, and also most of the students engaged in listening to calming music to relax; and in terms of the problems that they have encountered, most of the students experienced problem with their online connections, and most of the students disagree that they have poor comprehensions during online classes.
Conclusion: It is concluded that within the experiences of students towards instruction, physical education instructors utilized digital platforms in discussing lessons and gave considerable time for the students to finish and submit all the assigned tasks. Students had engaged themselves in listening to calming music that helps them avoid stress during online learning but engaged less in doing an activity such as stretching for their physical health. Most of the students highly encountered difficulties towards internet connection during online individual and dual sports but they still have a high comprehension level.
APA Citation StyleMendoza, D. (2023). Coping Strategies of Students in the Online Teaching and Learning of Physical Education. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 10-25. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v2i1.207 -
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 -
Survey on the Effectiveness of the Online Learning Process Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic in Physical Education
Indung Pranata1, Ari Wibowo Kurniawan21. State University of Malang , ID2. State University of Malang , ID2022-03-31|page 51-62AbstractBackground: Since the outbreak of the coronavirus covid-19 in Indonesia, education has offered online learning. Online learning requires system support, namely hardware (smartphone, tablet, or laptop/personal computer), internet network, and human resources. However, the implementation of online learning encounters several challenges and obstacles, especially online learning in physical education in elementary schools.
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine and examine the effectiveness of the online learning process due to the coronavirus pandemic in Physical Education and Health subjects at SD Negeri 6 Sumbermanjingkulon, Pagak District, Malang Regency.
Methods: This study used a descriptive research design with a survey method. This study involved 48 elementary school students. The data collected through a questionnaire method or a google form-based questionnaire that has been tested for validity by an expert. Data analysis was carried out on five indicators in the study. The indicators consist of student interest, interest, benefits, learning facilities and infrastructure, and quality of interaction.
Results: The results of the study indicate that the effectiveness of online learning at SD Negeri 6 Sumbermanjingkulon is in the criteria of being quite effective with a percentage of 46.90%.
Conclusion: Based on the results of the study, it shows that overall online learning in physical education and health subjects is quite effective, but the percentage obtained between quite effective and ineffective is only a slight difference.
APA Citation StylePranata, I. , & Kurniawan, A. W. (2022). Survey on the Effectiveness of the Online Learning Process Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic in Physical Education. Physical Education and Sports: Studies and Research, 51-62. https://doi.org/10.56003/pessr.v1i1.112 -
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












