Wang JingYan, Jeremy Godofredo Morales
ABSTRACT
This study examined the relationship between students’ sports motivation for swimming, their level of engagement, and their swimming skills. Results showed that students at Lingnan Normal University exhibited a moderate level of intrinsic motivation (interest and enjoyment) and extrinsic motivation (rewards and recognition). However, this level of motivation was not sufficient to foster strong engagement, consistent persistence, or advanced skill development. Students also demonstrated a moderate extent of cognitive, affective, and behavioral engagement. This indicates that although they showed some attention, emotional involvement, and participation in swimming activities, their engagement level was not adequate to maintain continuous effort, overcome difficulties, or achieve substantial improvement in performance. Furthermore, the students’ moderate level of swimming skills suggests that while they had acquired basic techniques and competencies, their overall proficiency was still limited and did not fully support confidence, safety, or effective performance in the water. Finally, the findings revealed a positive correlation among the variables: students with higher swimming skill levels tended to have stronger intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and demonstrated greater cognitive, affective, and behavioral engagement in swimming. Taken together, these results highlight the need for enhanced instructional strategies, motivational interventions, and skill development programs to strengthen students’ interest, increase their engagement, and further improve their swimming competency.
Keywords: Sport, swimming sport, motivation, engagement, interest, physical exercise
https://doi.org/10.57180/wqgh8378