Physical literacy needs in esports: literature review

Abstract

This study aims to identify the needs and the importance of physical literacy in esports and to develop a new understanding of the forms of physical literacy that can be applied to esports athletes. This qualitative research used literature review approach from various databases in the Esports Research Network (ERN), Frontier, MDPI, PLOS, Human Kinetick, PubMed, ResearchGate, and Taylor & Francis. There are 12 research results from the databases. The results identified crucial physical needs for esports athletes, such as strength, endurance, balance, and flexibility. In addition, this study also found several existing forms of physical literacy, such as directed physical exercise programs and health education, but not necessarily all athletes have sufficient access or understanding of this literacy. Based on these findings, it is recommended to develop a physical exercise program which suits individual needs, and attention should be paid to the packaging of physical literacy with the right media to be delivered to athletes effectively. The implications of this study include benefits for esports athletes, coaches, esports organizations, researchers, media, and the public in increasing understanding of the importance of physical health and physical literacy in esports. By following the suggestions proposed, more effective efforts can be made to improve the health, performance, and well-being of esports athletes in the future. Keywords: esports, physical literacy, , athlete performance