Teachers’ and students’ perceptions of the HIIT application in Physical Education. Sport Education Model vs Traditional Approach

Abstract

The positive results of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and functional exercises in the extracurricular field have raised interest in how to introduce them in Physical Education (PE). This study aimed to examine the potential of fitness content in Sport Education Model (SEM) and to analyze the adequacy of HIIT and functional exercises in PE. Primary and Secondary Education students´ (n=205) and teachers’ (n=4) perceptions were analyzed. Students were divided into two groups to compare SEM (n= 106) and the traditional approach (n= 99). Teachers’ perceptions were measured by self-reports and students’ perceptions by focus groups (n= 30). Yin’s (2011) phases were used to analyze the data. SEM results are consistent with literature and there is a positive perception of both, students and teacher, about HIIT and functional exercises. In conclusion, SEM could have an educational potential similar to that presented with games, and the HIIT could be an alternative to traditional fitness approach in PE.