Efectos del Modelo Ludotécnico sobre la intención de práctica y el rendimiento en la iniciación al atletismo

Participation rates in athletics in Spain are significantly lower than in other sports, such as football. In response to this trend, methodological alternatives such as the Ludotechnical Model have been proposed, prioritizing motivation, enjoyment, and a learner-centered pedagogical approach. This study analyzed the effects of a program based on the Ludotechnical Model on motivational variables and athletic performance in youth track and field initiation. A controlled quasi-experimental study was conducted over 16 sessions, involving a sample of 142 athletes aged 8 to 13 years (M = 10.33; SD = 1.82). Various validated scales were used to assess athletes’ perceptions of their coach’s interpersonal style, the satisfaction of their basic psychological needs, their motivation, and their intention to continue practicing athletics. Athletic performance was assessed through physical tests, including 50- and 800-meter runs, standing long jump, and medicine ball throw. The results showed a significant increase in the self-determination index after the intervention (M 6.74 and 8.34, p = .04), along with improvements in physical performance. These findings suggest that the Ludotechnical Model can serve as an effective pedagogical alternative to traditional approaches in athletics initiation by enhancing both motivation and performance among young athletes.