The Role of Physical Education Teaching in Promoting School Sports Participation and Youth Fitness Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Physical education (PE) is an important commodity in youth physical development and sports activities. However, many school-going children and youths face challenges in the way they, or are, approached in PE classes and thus the difficulty experienced by schools to promote the habits in the children for the long run. Teacher-led interventions and structured PE programs are instrumental in encouraging physical activity, yet their impact on students' fitness outcomes and sports participation rates requires further investigation. Objective: This study seeks to establish a causal connection between the teaching methodology employed in PE classes to the youth fitness level, and the impact of the teacher-led intercession on the youth and middle/high students’ involvement in sports. Methods: A school-based cross-sectional study was carried out whereby 500 students from private and government schools of ages 12-18 years. Data collection included surveys on PE participation and student attitudes, as well as fitness assessments measuring cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and flexibility. A multi-variable analysis was performed to determine the correlation between PE teaching methods, fitness outcomes, and sports participation rates. Results: The analysis revealed that students with regular PE attendance exhibited significantly better fitness outcomes, with cardiovascular endurance improving by 45%, muscular strength by 30%, and flexibility by 25%. Teacher-led interventions were associated with an 85% sports participation rate, compared to 60% among students with minimal intervention. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.65) was found between student-centered PE teaching and improved cardiovascular endurance. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that structured PE programs and teacher-led interventions are key to enhancing youth physical fitness and increasing sports participation. Schools should prioritize interactive and student-centered teaching approaches in PE to promote long-term physical activity and improve health outcomes.