Gen Z’s fitness concepts and ways to be fit: Insights to strengthen students’ learning experiences in tertiary physical education

Abstract

Being dubbed as digital natives born and raised in the highly industrial era, Generation Z Students differ from preceding generations. A data exposed an increasing number of dropped-out students in Physical Education classes in one of the leading State Universities in the Philippines. Several reasons have been revealed, and one of those is the current Tertiary Physical Education curriculum content. Hence, the purpose of this study was to determine the Fitness Concepts and Ways to Stay Fit for Generation Z students to enhance their learning experiences in Tertiary Physical Education. Using the Phenomenology Research Design, 95 research participants participated in focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and unobtrusive participants observation. The findings of this inquiry indicated three (3) reasons why Generation Z Students still perceive Physical Education as an important course in schools (Gadget Addiction; Early Childhood Diseases; and Stress Release) and six (6) techniques to stay healthy (Exercise and Physical Activities; Balanced Diet; Enough Sleep/Rest; Self-discipline; and Use of Technology). The findings and conclusions served as critical components in strengthening the Tertiary Physical Education curriculum to tailor the learning experiences to Generation Z students' concepts, ways, and preferences.