Clinical Research Directory

Mobile-Based Gamified Physical Activity in Secondary Education

Physical activity (PA) is critical for children's physical, psychological, social and cognitive health. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that children aged 5-17 engage in 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per day. However, 81% of children worldwide, 58% of children in Turkey, and 80% of adolescents do not meet these recommendations. Physical inactivity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and metabolic disorders, causing millions of deaths each year. Therefore, school-based interventions offer an important opportunity to improve children's PA, health-related physical fitness, and physical literacy (3F) levels. In recent years, the concept of physical literacy and mobile-based gamification applications have come to the fore. Gamification increases motivation and improves PA levels through elements such as points, badges, levels, and leaderboards. The literature indicates that gamified applications have positive effects on step count and exercise habits. However, research on physical fitness and literacy dimensions remains limited. In this context, the aim of the project is to examine the effects of a 12-week gamified mobile-based physical activity programme on 3F in secondary school students. The research will be conducted with 54 students at a state secondary school in Bursa, and participants will be divided into three groups: the gamified experimental group (GE), the non-gamified experimental group (NG), and the control group (CG). The physical activity programme will consist of daily step targets and weekly exercises, and students will be monitored via the mobile application called 'Time to Move' and a portfolio notebook. The gamification group will use points, badges, levels and a leaderboard, and physical activity homework will also be assigned outside of school. The study will include pre-tests, post-tests and 12-week follow-up measurements. The unique value of the project lies in fostering PA habits through a gamified mobile application, determining 3F levels and examining their effects on these levels, and ensuring the sustainable monitoring of a school-based programme with the support of a mobile application and portfolio. The main objective of the research is to support behavioural change in secondary school students, make PA a lifestyle, and foster healthy living habits in the long term.

Development of Human Motor Skills and the Promotion of Motivation for Physical Activity

This study is conducted within the University Centre of Excellence for Studies of Human Motoric at the Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University. The project focuses on research investigating mechanisms that support motivation for participation in physical activity among children and youth. In recent decades, participation in physical activity has been declining globally, including among children and adolescents. Understanding the factors that influence motivation for physical activity is essential for developing effective strategies to support long-term engagement in physical activity. The study aims to contribute to knowledge about the role of physical activity and physical education in promoting children's long-term physical and mental development.

Open Space and Closed Years

The primary objective of this project is to examine the effects of a specific multicomponent physical activity program (MPAP), conducted in an outdoor setting, on the health and functional-motor status (HFMS) of women over the age of 60. Additionally, the study will investigate the influence of sociodemographic factors (SDF), physical literacy (PL), and health literacy (HL) on the baseline HFMS and the subsequent changes resulting from the KTP. Study Methodology The program participants will consist of older women (\>60 years; n=60) whose current HFMS allows for participation in the exercise protocol. They will be divided into two groups: Experimental Group: Will participate in the MPAP. Control Group: Will not participate in the MPAP. The exercise intervention (MPAP) will include a combination of aerobic activities, strength exercises, balance, and flexibility. It will be conducted two to three times per week across two three-month cycles, separated by a three-month break. Data Collection and Environment Assessments: Sociodemographic factors, physical literacy, and health literacy will be measured at the start of the study. A series of HFMS indicators will be recorded before and after each exercise cycle. Setting: The MPAP will be performed outdoors in a public park. Project Significance Beyond analyzing the direct effects of the exercise program and the correlations between the measured variables, this project will contribute to a deeper understanding of the importance of the natural environment in implementing goal-oriented physical activity for the elderly population.