Assessment of Motivation in Spanish Physical Education Students: Applying Achievement Goals and Self-Determination Theories

The purpose of this study was to identify the different motivational profiles and the existence of differences in perceived competence and physical condition among a sample of 736 students. Different instruments were applied in order to assess sport motivation (SMS), motivational orientation (POSQ), perceived competence and physical condition. Cluster analysis showed four motivational profiles (highly motivated; non-self-determined; moderated self-determined; amotivated). Perceived competence and physical condition manifested significant differences in the four clusters. There were gender and after school sport practice differences in the four clusters too. These results enable physical education teachers to implement segmentation strategies in order to increase the effectiveness of their interventions and achieve more active participation.