The Teaching of Physical Education in Primary School: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to analyze the challenges and opportunities in physical education teaching at the primary level through a systematic review based on the PRISMA statement. A descriptive-synthetic qualitative methodology was employed, consulting high-impact databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and ERIC, from which eighteen studies published in the last ten years that met scientific rigor criteria were selected. The results revealed that the predominant challenges were linked to curricular marginalization, the shortage of instructional time, and the persistence of traditional approaches that limited inclusion. Conversely, emerging opportunities centered on the implementation of practice-based pedagogical models, such as cooperative learning, sports education, and gamification, were identified. It was concluded that, while institutional barriers were persistent, methodological innovation and model hybridization represented the most effective ways to transform teaching practice. Strengthening continuous training and promoting physical literacy were recommended to ensure quality education that transcends the motor domain toward the social-emotional development of the students.                                  Keywords: Primary Education, Physical Education, Educational Innovation, Teacher Education, Curriculum, Teaching Method.