Background of the Study
Traditional wrestling, a culturally significant sport, plays an important role in promoting physical education among secondary school students in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State (Kareem, 2023). Rooted in indigenous traditions, traditional wrestling offers not only vigorous physical exercise but also a means of preserving cultural heritage and promoting community cohesion. In recent years, educators and policymakers have increasingly recognized the value of integrating traditional sports into formal physical education curricula (Lawal, 2024). Such integration provides a unique opportunity to combine physical fitness with cultural education, fostering discipline, respect, and teamwork among students. Traditional wrestling, characterized by its emphasis on strength, agility, and strategic thinking, complements modern sports by offering alternative methods for developing physical and mental skills. In Jos North, the sport is celebrated as an integral part of local culture, and its inclusion in school programs can enhance student engagement by connecting them with their cultural roots (Musa, 2025). Schools have begun to incorporate traditional wrestling into their physical education schedules, using it as a tool to promote holistic development, boost self-confidence, and instill a sense of identity. Research conducted in similar socio-cultural settings has indicated that students participating in indigenous sports exhibit higher levels of physical fitness and improved social behavior (Nuhu, 2023). Moreover, traditional wrestling’s inherent competitive nature encourages the development of resilience and strategic problem-solving skills. This study investigates how traditional wrestling can be effectively integrated into physical education curricula to maximize these benefits. It explores the pedagogical approaches that merge traditional practices with modern teaching methods, thereby offering students an engaging, culturally rich, and physically demanding experience. Additionally, the study examines the challenges and opportunities associated with this integration, such as the need for specialized training for physical education teachers and potential resistance from stakeholders accustomed to conventional sports. Through comprehensive analysis and field observations, the research aims to provide actionable recommendations for educators and policymakers to enhance the role of traditional wrestling in promoting physical education. Ultimately, the study seeks to contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic physical education framework that values both cultural heritage and modern fitness practices (Olaoye, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the cultural significance and potential benefits of traditional wrestling, its integration into the formal physical education curriculum in Jos North remains limited. Secondary school students often have limited exposure to indigenous sports, with modern sports dominating the curriculum (Patience, 2023). This trend has led to a decline in the practice of traditional wrestling, thereby risking the loss of cultural heritage and the associated physical and moral benefits. The problem is further compounded by challenges such as inadequate teacher training in traditional sports, limited institutional support, and the absence of structured programs that formally incorporate traditional wrestling into school activities (Rashid, 2024). Additionally, the existing curriculum tends to prioritize standardized, globally recognized sports, which marginalizes indigenous activities. Consequently, students miss valuable opportunities to engage in culturally relevant physical activities that promote discipline, teamwork, and resilience. This study aims to identify the barriers to the effective integration of traditional wrestling in secondary schools and to explore strategies that can overcome these challenges. The research will focus on how curriculum design, teacher preparedness, and community involvement impact the acceptance and implementation of traditional wrestling. By addressing these issues, the study seeks to provide evidence-based recommendations that can help bridge the gap between cultural tradition and modern educational practices. Such interventions are critical for ensuring that traditional wrestling not only survives but thrives as a means to promote physical fitness and cultural identity among young learners.
Objectives of the Study:
To evaluate the impact of traditional wrestling on physical fitness among secondary school students.
To identify the challenges and opportunities in integrating traditional wrestling into the physical education curriculum.
To propose strategies for effectively incorporating traditional wrestling in secondary schools.
Research Questions:
How does traditional wrestling influence physical fitness and cultural identity among secondary school students?
What are the primary challenges faced in integrating traditional wrestling into the formal physical education curriculum?
What strategies can be implemented to promote the inclusion of traditional wrestling in school sports programs?
Research Hypotheses:
H1: Traditional wrestling significantly improves physical fitness among secondary school students.
H2: There is a positive relationship between participation in traditional wrestling and students’ cultural awareness.
H3: Structured integration of traditional wrestling into the curriculum enhances overall student engagement in physical education.
Significance of the Study
This study highlights the dual benefits of traditional wrestling in promoting physical fitness and preserving cultural heritage among secondary school students in Jos North. The findings will offer insights for educators and policymakers to develop culturally inclusive physical education curricula that enhance student well-being and foster community cohesion. The research contributes to the broader discourse on integrating indigenous sports into modern education and underscores the importance of balancing global sporting practices with local traditions.
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to examining the role of traditional wrestling in promoting physical education among secondary school students in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State. The research focuses solely on the integration of traditional wrestling within the school curriculum and does not extend to other indigenous sports or extracurricular activities.
Definitions of Terms:
Traditional Wrestling: A culturally rooted form of wrestling practiced using indigenous rules and techniques.
Physical Education: An educational program that emphasizes physical fitness, sportsmanship, and motor skill development.
Cultural Heritage: The legacy of cultural traditions, practices, and values passed down through generations.
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