Health-Promoting Fitness Training in Physical Education: A Quasi-Experimental Study on Enhancing Physical and Psychosocial Health Resources in Upper Secondary Students

Purpose : Systematic training in physical education plays a pivotal role in promoting physical and psychosocial health resources among adolescents. This study examines the effects of a 7-week fitness training intervention, incorporating reflective–cognitive elements, on the physical and psychosocial health resources and training competence of upper secondary school students. Method : A quasi-experimental design was employed. The sample consisted of 134 students (47 female; M age = 17.7 years) from Grades 11 and 12 in German secondary schools. Results : Findings revealed significant improvements in physical resources (e.g., lower body and core strength). Psychosocial outcomes showed enhanced perceived training competence in load regulation, training control, and diagnostic abilities. However, no significant effects were observed in global psychosocial constructs (e.g., health satisfaction). Discussion/Conclusion : The results highlight the potential of reflective and structured training interventions to enhance students’ fitness and training competencies while suggesting that broader psychosocial changes may require more extensive or diverse interventions.