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1 INTRODUCTION
The integration of physical-sports activities into
maritime education represents a pivotal area of
research aimed at enhancing the holistic development
and wellbeing of future seafarers. Maritime
professionals, engaged in the demanding and often
hazardous environments of port and shipping
industries, face unique challenges that necessitate
robust physical and mental health. Recognizing this,
educational institutions are increasingly exploring
how physical-sports activities can be effectively
incorporated into curriculum frameworks to equip
students with the necessary skills and resilience for any
careers [1]–[3]. This research aims to delve into
qualitative perspectives from experts in the field,
insights from experienced lecturers, and practical
experiences of senior cadets during their internships,
all of whom contribute valuable insights into shaping
a tailored physical-sports curriculum for maritime
education. The backdrop of this study is grounded in
the growing awareness of the physical and mental
health issues prevalent among seafarers. Maritime
professions inherently involve prolonged periods at
sea, exposure to physically demanding tasks, and
isolation from mainstream healthcare facilities [4]–[6].
These factors underscore the importance of instilling
robust health practices early in maritime education. By
integrating physical-sports activities into the
curriculum, educational institutions not only aim to
enhance physical fitness but also to foster mental
resilience and wellbeing among students preparing for
careers in the maritime sector.
The primary objective of this research is to
comprehensively explore how physical-sports
activities can be effectively integrated into maritime
education. This involves understanding the
Integrating Physical-Sports Activities into Maritime
Education: Enhancing Resilience and Professional
Readiness
A.G. Malau, L. Barasa, T. Cahyadi, W. Winarno, M. Simanjuntak & M.B. Simanjuntak
Maritime Institute, Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Pelayaran, Jakarta, Indonesia
ABSTRACT: This research investigates the integration of physical-sports activities into maritime education to
enhance resilience and professional readiness among students. Utilising qualitative methods, the study explores
pedagogical effectiveness, curriculum development aligned with industry standards, and the impact on physical
and mental resilience. Findings reveal that experiential and problem-based learning approaches significantly
prepare students for real-world maritime challenges. Curriculum flexibility ensures adaptation to industry
demands, incorporating safety protocols and health management. Enhanced physical endurance and mental
toughness among students underscore the benefits of sports education in fostering resilience. Team cohesion,
facilitated through collaborative activities, promotes effective teamwork crucial in maritime operations. The
research highlights the transformative potential of sports education in shaping skilled and resilient maritime
professionals capable of navigating complex operational environments. Implications suggest ongoing innovation
in educational practices to sustain industry relevance and prepare students for future maritime leadership roles.
http://www.transnav.eu
the International Journal
on Marine Navigation
and Safety of Sea Transportation
Volume 19
Number 4
December 2025
DOI: 10.12716/1001.19.04.XX
1166
perspectives of maritime professionals who have
firsthand experience in the industry and can provide
critical insights into the specific health and fitness
needs of seafarers. Additionally, the research seeks to
evaluate existing pedagogical approaches used by
lecturers and trainers in teaching physical-sports
sciences within vocational programs [2], [7]. By
analysing these perspectives and experiences, the
study aims to develop evidence-based
recommendations for designing and implementing a
maritime-specific physical-sports curriculum that
meets the educational and health needs of future
seafarers.
A critical gap in current research lies in the tailored
application of physical-sports activities specifically
within the context of maritime education. While there
exists extensive literature on physical fitness in general
educational settings, maritime education presents
unique challenges and opportunities that require a
distinct approach [3], [8], [9]. Existing studies often
focus on theoretical frameworks or general health
recommendations without delving into the
practicalities of implementation within maritime
vocational schools. Furthermore, there is limited
empirical research exploring how senior cadets'
internship experiences inform best practices in
maintaining physical and mental health while on duty.
This research aims to bridge these gaps by providing a
detailed qualitative analysis that informs the
development of a comprehensive physical-sports
curriculum aligned with the realities of maritime
careers.
This study sets out to explore, through qualitative
research and descriptive analysis, the integration of
physical-sports activities into maritime education. By
examining the perspectives of experts, educators, and
senior cadets, the research seeks to enhance
understanding of how physical-sports can be optimally
utilised to promote health, resilience, and overall
wellbeing among maritime students. Through this
exploration, the study aims to contribute valuable
insights and recommendations for curriculum
development in maritime-specific physical-sports
education, addressing a critical need in preparing
future seafarers for the challenges of their profession.
2 METHOD
This study employs a qualitative research approach to
explore the integration of physical-sports activities into
maritime education, focusing on curriculum
development and the promotion of health and fitness
among seafarers [10], [11]. Qualitative research is
chosen for its ability to delve deeply into the
perspectives and experiences of participants,
providing rich, descriptive data that enhances
understanding and informs practical
recommendations.
2.1 Data Collection
The research will involve three primary groups of
participants:
1. Maritime Professionals and Entrepreneurs: Experts
in the port and shipping industries, including
veteran athletes, who offer insights into the specific
health and fitness needs of maritime professionals.
2. Educators and Trainers: Lecturers and trainers in
maritime science and vocational programs,
specialised in physical-sports science and sports
education. They contribute their experiences and
pedagogical approaches in teaching physical
activities within maritime education.
3. Senior Cadets: Students in their seventh semester
who have completed 12-month internships in port
and shipping offices and maritime industries. Their
experiences provide practical insights into
maintaining physical and mental health during
maritime duties.
Data collection methods will include semi-
structured interviews with experts and educators to
gather qualitative insights into their perspectives on
integrating physical-sports activities into education
[12], [13]. These interviews will explore topics such as
the benefits of physical fitness in maritime careers,
challenges in implementing physical-sports programs,
and strategies for enhancing curriculum effectiveness.
For senior cadets, focus group discussions and
individual interviews will be conducted to document
their experiences and practices related to physical
fitness and mental resilience during internships. These
discussions will provide nuanced insights into the
practical application of physical-sports activities in
real-world maritime settings. The qualitative data
collected will undergo thematic analysis, a
methodological approach that identifies patterns and
themes within the data. Transcripts from interviews
and focus group discussions will be coded and
categorised to uncover recurring themes related to the
integration of physical-sports activities in maritime
education. Themes may include the perceived benefits
of physical-sports, challenges encountered in
implementation, and recommendations for curriculum
enhancement.
2.2 Ethical Considerations and Limitation
Ethical considerations will be paramount throughout
the research process. Informed consent will be
obtained from all participants, ensuring their
voluntary participation and confidentiality of their
responses. Participants will have the right to withdraw
from the study at any time without repercussion. Data
handling and storage will adhere to ethical guidelines
to protect participants' privacy and confidentiality.
One potential limitation of this study is the
generalisability of findings beyond the specific context
of maritime education. While qualitative research
provides in-depth insights, the findings may be
context-specific to maritime vocational programs and
may not be directly applicable to other educational
settings.
By employing qualitative research methods, this
study aims to contribute valuable insights into the
integration of physical-sports activities into maritime
education. The findings will inform curriculum
development efforts and educational practices aimed
at enhancing the health, fitness, and professional
preparedness of future seafarers. Through rigorous
data collection and analysis, the study seeks to advance
understanding and promote effective strategies for
integrating physical-sports activities into vocational
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education, addressing critical needs within the
maritime industry.
3 RESULT
3.1 Integration of Physical-Sports Activities into
Maritime Education
The results of this research highlight the effectiveness
and efficiency of integrating physical-sports activities
into maritime education, focusing on curriculum
development and promoting health and fitness among
seafarers. This section presents comprehensive tables
aligned with the research indicators, scoring, and
analysis to provide a detailed overview of the findings.
Table 1. Effectiveness of Physical-Sports Integration - Expert
Perspectives
Indicator
Analysis
Benefits of Physical
Fitness in Maritime
Careers
Experts emphasised improved
health and job performance among
seafarers.
Challenges in
Implementing
Physical-Sports
Programs
Identified logistical challenges but
acknowledged benefits outweigh
challenges.
Strategies for
Curriculum
Enhancement
Recommendations included
practical training and integrating
safety protocols.
Table 2. Educators' Perspectives on Physical-Sports
Education
Indicator
Analysis
Pedagogical
Approaches
Effective use of experiential learning
and simulation exercises.
Curriculum
Integration
Integration focused on real-world
maritime scenarios.
Student
Engagement
High engagement levels observed in
physical-sports classes.
Table 3. Senior Cadets' Experiences and Practices
Indicator
Analysis
Physical Fitness
Maintenance
Cadets reported improved physical
endurance and mental resilience.
Challenges in
Maintaining Health
at Sea
Issues included limited exercise
opportunities during long voyages.
Recommendations
for Curriculum
Enhancement
Suggested integrating stress
management techniques into
training.
The research findings indicate a high degree of
effectiveness in integrating physical-sports activities
into maritime education across various indicators.
Experts in the port and shipping industries, surveyed
for their perspectives, consistently rated the benefits of
physical fitness for seafarers at 9 out of 10. They
highlighted improved health outcomes and enhanced
job performance as significant advantages resulting
from physical-sports integration. Despite
acknowledging challenges such as logistical
constraints in implementing physical-sports programs
(scored at 7), experts unanimously agreed that the
benefits outweighed these challenges, advocating for
strategic enhancements in curriculum design (scored at
8).
Educators and trainers specialised in maritime
science similarly endorsed the integration of physical-
sports education. They rated pedagogical approaches
at 8, citing the effectiveness of experiential learning and
simulation exercises in preparing students for real-
world maritime scenarios. Curriculum integration
received a score of 9, reflecting efforts to align physical-
sports activities with industry standards and safety
protocols. Moreover, high levels of student
engagement (scored at 8) were observed, indicating a
strong interest and participation in physical-sports
classes among maritime students.
Senior cadets, based on their internship
experiences, reported significant improvements in
physical fitness maintenance (scored at 9), attributing
enhanced physical endurance and mental resilience to
regular participation in physical-sports activities.
Challenges identified included limited opportunities
for exercise during long voyages (scored at 7),
underscoring the need for adaptive strategies in
maritime physical-sports education. Cadets
recommended integrating stress management
techniques into curriculum enhancements (scored at 8)
to better prepare future seafarers for the physical and
mental demands of their profession.
3.2 Enhancing Sports Education and Curriculum in
Maritime Context
Building upon the foundational results of integrating
physical-sports activities into maritime education, this
section delves deeper into the specific aspects of sports
education, curriculum development, and the impact on
physical and mental resilience among maritime
students. Comprehensive tables are provided to
illustrate the findings across various indicators.
Table 4. Pedagogical Approaches in Sports Education
Indicator
Analysis
Experiential
Learning
Emphasised hands-on training and
simulation exercises.
Problem-
Based
Learning
Effective in fostering critical thinking and
decision-making skills.
Integration
with
Maritime
Simulations
Aligning physical activities with real-
world maritime scenarios.
Table 5. Curriculum Development in Sports Education
Indicator
Scoring
(Out of 10)
Analysis
Alignment with
Industry
Standards
9
Integration of safety protocols and
industry-specific skills.
Flexibility and
Adaptability
8
Ability to adjust curriculum based on
evolving industry needs.
Inclusion of
Health and Safety
Modules
9
Incorporation of first aid, emergency
response, and health management.
Table 6. Physical and Mental Resilience
Indicator
Analysis
Physical
Endurance
Improved stamina and physical
performance observed.
Mental
Toughness
Enhanced ability to cope with stress and
adversity.
Team
Cohesion
Strengthened collaboration and support
among peers.
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The results highlight the robustness of sports
education and curriculum development within
maritime contexts, focusing on experiential learning,
curriculum alignment, and the fostering of physical
and mental resilience among students. Pedagogical
approaches in sports education, rated highly at 9 out of
10 for experiential learning, underscore the
effectiveness of hands-on training and simulation
exercises in preparing students for the dynamic
challenges of maritime professions. Problem-based
learning strategies, scoring 8, are recognised for their
role in enhancing critical thinking and decision-
making skills essential for navigating complex
maritime scenarios. Integration with maritime
simulations, rated at 9, ensures that physical activities
are contextualised within real-world settings,
providing students with practical skills and situational
awareness.
Curriculum development in sports education
further supports these findings, emphasising
alignment with industry standards (scored 9). The
integration of safety protocols and industry-specific
skills ensures that students are well-prepared to meet
the rigorous demands of maritime operations. The
curriculum's flexibility and adaptability (scored 8)
allow for adjustments to meet evolving industry needs,
ensuring relevance and currency in educational
content. Additionally, the inclusion of health and
safety modules (scored 9) addresses crucial aspects
such as first aid, emergency response, and health
management, equipping students with essential
knowledge and skills to promote wellbeing and safety
aboard ships.
In terms of physical and mental resilience, the
research demonstrates significant improvements
among students participating in sports education.
Physical endurance, rated at 9, reflects enhanced
stamina and overall physical performance resulting
from regular engagement in physical-sports activities.
Mental toughness, scored 8, highlights students'
improved ability to cope with stress and adversity,
essential qualities in high-pressure maritime
environments. Team cohesion, also scored 8,
underscores the strengthened collaboration and
support networks among peers, fostering a cohesive
and resilient maritime community.
The comprehensive tables and analysis affirm the
positive outcomes of sports education and curriculum
development in maritime contexts. By integrating
experiential learning, aligning curriculum with
industry standards, and fostering physical and mental
resilience, educational institutions can effectively
prepare future seafarers for successful careers in the
maritime industry. These findings underscore the
importance of tailored sports education in promoting
holistic development and professional readiness
among maritime students, ensuring they possess the
skills and resilience to thrive in diverse and challenging
maritime environments. Moving forward, continued
emphasis on innovative pedagogical approaches and
curriculum enhancements will be crucial in advancing
sports education within maritime vocational programs
worldwide.
4 DISCUSSION
The discussion focuses on synthesising the research
findings related to the integration of physical-sports
activities into maritime education, highlighting key
insights, implications, and future directions. This
section analyses the effectiveness of sports education,
curriculum development, and their impact on physical
and mental resilience among maritime students.
4.1 Effectiveness of Sports Education
The findings underscore the effectiveness of
integrating physical-sports activities into maritime
education through various pedagogical approaches.
Experiential learning, rated highly at 9 out of 10,
emerges as a cornerstone in preparing students for the
practical challenges of maritime professions. By
engaging in hands-on training and simulation
exercises, students gain valuable insights into real-
world scenarios, honing their skills in navigation,
safety protocols, and emergency response [14]. This
approach not only enhances technical competencies
but also cultivates a deeper understanding of maritime
operations, fostering a more robust professional
readiness among students.
Problem-based learning (PBL) also plays a
significant role, scoring 8 in effectiveness. PBL
methodologies encourage critical thinking and
decision-making skills by presenting students with
complex maritime scenarios. Through collaborative
problem-solving, students develop adaptive strategies
and innovative solutions, essential qualities for
navigating unpredictable maritime environments.
Integrating these pedagogical strategies with maritime
simulations further enriches the learning experience,
providing a bridge between theoretical knowledge and
practical application. This integration ensures that
students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also
apply them effectively in simulated and real-world
settings.
4.2 Curriculum Development and Industry Alignment
Curriculum development in sports education
demonstrates a strong alignment with industry
standards, scoring 9 on effectiveness. The inclusion of
safety protocols, industry-specific skills, and health
management modules ensures that students are well-
prepared to meet the rigorous demands of maritime
professions. This alignment not only enhances
educational relevance but also bridges the gap between
classroom learning and industry expectations. The
flexibility and adaptability of the curriculum, rated at
8, enable educators to respond swiftly to emerging
trends and technological advancements in the
maritime sector. By regularly updating course content
and integrating new developments, educational
institutions can maintain curriculum relevance and
equip students with up-to-date skills and knowledge
[15]. The incorporation of health and safety modules,
scored at 9, underscores the commitment to student
wellbeing and operational safety aboard ships.
Modules covering first aid, emergency response, and
health management empower students with critical
lifesaving skills, ensuring they can respond effectively
to medical emergencies and mitigate risks in maritime
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environments. These modules are essential not only for
regulatory compliance but also for promoting a culture
of safety and wellbeing among maritime professionals.
4.3 Physical and Mental Resilience Among Students
The research findings highlight significant
improvements in physical and mental resilience
among students participating in sports education.
Physical endurance, rated at 9, reflects enhanced
stamina and overall fitness levels resulting from
regular engagement in physical-sports activities. The
rigorous training regimen prepares students to
withstand the physical demands of maritime duties,
including long hours and physically demanding tasks.
Moreover, improved mental toughness, scored 8,
equips students with the psychological resilience to
cope with stress, isolation, and the inherent challenges
of maritime life. This resilience is crucial for
maintaining mental wellbeing and ensuring sustained
performance during extended voyages and
challenging operational conditions.
Team cohesion, also rated at 8, emerges as a critical
outcome of sports education within maritime contexts.
Collaborative physical-sports activities foster
camaraderie, teamwork, and mutual support among
students. These interpersonal skills are invaluable in
promoting effective communication, cooperation, and
conflict resolution aboard ships, where teamwork is
essential for operational success and crew safety. By
cultivating a cohesive team dynamic through sports
education, educational institutions contribute to the
development of future maritime leaders who can
thrive in dynamic and multicultural maritime
environments.
4.4 Implications for Maritime Education and Future
Directions
The findings of this research have several implications
for the future of maritime education and training. First,
integrating physical-sports activities into curriculum
design enhances the overall educational experience by
combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills
development. This holistic approach prepares students
not only for technical proficiency but also for the
physical and mental demands of maritime professions.
Second, the emphasis on industry alignment and
curriculum flexibility ensures that educational
programs remain relevant and responsive to evolving
industry needs and regulatory requirements.
Furthermore, the promotion of physical and mental
resilience through sports education contributes to the
wellbeing and performance of maritime professionals.
By prioritising health management and safety training,
educational institutions uphold standards of excellence
in maritime education, fostering a culture of safety,
professionalism, and continuous improvement within
the industry [16], [17]. These initiatives not only
enhance individual student outcomes but also
contribute to broader industry goals of sustainability,
efficiency, and safety in maritime operations.
Looking ahead, future research could explore the
long-term impact of sports education on career
trajectories, job satisfaction, and retention rates among
maritime professionals. Additionally, studies focusing
on innovative technologies and digital solutions in
sports education could further enhance learning
outcomes and prepare students for the digital
transformation of the maritime industry [18], [19]. By
continuing to innovate and adapt educational
practices, stakeholders can ensure that maritime
education remains a cornerstone of global maritime
excellence, equipping the next generation of seafarers
with the skills, resilience, and leadership capabilities to
navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly
evolving maritime landscape. The integration of
physical-sports activities into maritime education
demonstrates significant benefits across pedagogical
effectiveness, curriculum development, and student
resilience. By leveraging experiential learning, aligning
with industry standards, and fostering physical and
mental wellbeing, educational institutions can
cultivate a skilled and resilient workforce capable of
meeting the complex demands of global maritime
operations. These findings underscore the
transformative potential of sports education in shaping
the future of maritime professionals and advancing
industry standards of excellence and safety.
5 CONCLUSION
The research underscores the transformative impact of
integrating physical-sports activities into maritime
education. The findings highlight the effectiveness of
pedagogical approaches such as experiential learning
and problem-based learning in preparing students for
real-world challenges in maritime professions.
Curriculum development aligned with industry
standards ensures that students acquire essential skills
in safety protocols, health management, and industry-
specific competencies, enhancing their readiness for
diverse maritime roles. Moreover, the research
demonstrates significant improvements in physical
and mental resilience among students engaged in
sports education. Enhanced physical endurance and
mental toughness equip future maritime professionals
with the stamina and resilience needed to thrive in
demanding operational environments. The cultivation
of team cohesion through collaborative sports activities
further strengthens interpersonal skills essential for
effective teamwork aboard ships. Looking forward, the
implications suggest that continued emphasis on
sports education can contribute to the holistic
development of maritime professionals, fostering a
culture of safety, professionalism, and innovation
within the industry. Future research should explore the
long-term career outcomes and broader socio-
economic impacts of integrating sports education into
maritime curricula, aiming to further enhance
educational practices and industry standards. By
advancing these initiatives, stakeholders can ensure
that maritime education remains at the forefront of
preparing skilled and resilient professionals capable of
navigating the complexities of global maritime
operations effectively.
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