ACTIVE: Journal of Physical Education, Sport, Health and Recreation
Vol. 15 No. 2 (2026)

The Role of Traditional Games in Improving Students’ Physical Literacy in the Modern Era: A Literature Review

Dhiya Naufal Hafiyyan (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)
Sonia Lapesta Nababan (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)
Yonatan Heri Dani Marbun (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)
Derryl Novario Franaditya (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)
Marisa Noviyanti Fajrah Ilsya (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
04 Jul 2026

Abstract

The modern era, characterized by rapid advances in digital technology, has led to an increase in sedentary lifestyles among children and adolescents, which has resulted in a decline in physical literacy—a crucial foundation for students’ affec-tive, cognitive, and psychomotor development. This study aims to analyze the role of traditional games in improving students’ physical literacy in the modern era through a literature review approach. The method used is a literature review em-ploying descriptive analysis techniques on various relevant articles, journals, and scientific literature. The findings indicate that traditional games such as engklek, gobak sodor, and hide-and-seek have been proven to holistically enhance stu-dents’ physical literacy, encompassing the physical, psychological, social, and cognitive domains. Furthermore, traditional games are effective in reducing sed-entary time, improving motor skills, physical fitness, motivation, and students’ self-confidence to actively engage in long-term physical activities. Traditional games also contribute to character building, the instillation of cooperative values, and the preservation of local culture. Thus, traditional games can serve as a contextual, relevant, and effective pedagogical approach in physical education at school to support the development of physical literacy among students growing up amidst the challenges of the modern era.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

peshr

Publisher

Subject

Other

Description

Journal is a peer-reviewed, four-color, professional journal. Continuously published since 2012, Active serves as an authoritative, professional source for educators in physical education, sports, health, and recreation in all settings. It provides the information needed to assist students and ...