S.L. Podkovalnikov¹
PhD, Associate Professor M.K. Musafirov²
V.V. Pahar^3
1North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, Saint Petersburg
²National University of Science and Technology “MISiS” (Novotroitsk Branch), Novotroitsk
³Russian Historical Association, Orenburg

Keywords: anime, physical education, Japanese cartoons, motivation, regular and extracurricular activities, schoolchildren.

Introduction. Anime, due to its unique visual style, dynamic plots and vivid characters, is very popular among the younger generation of Russians. Many anime series focus on sports, physical activity, and achieving goals through hard training. The characters in these works demonstrate examples of determination, teamwork and overcoming difficulties, which can serve as a powerful motivating factor for young viewers who are in the process of forming their personality.
The purpose of the study is to identify and substantiate the effectiveness of using anime for students during physical education classes during regular and after–school hours.
Methodology and organization of research. The study was conducted on the basis of the Kaluga branch of the RANEPA and the Suzanovskaya Secondary School of the Novosergievsky district of the Orenburg Region during the 2022-2023 academic year. Schoolchildren of grades 8-11 took part in the experiment. The participants were divided into two groups (15 people each): an experimental group (who regularly watch anime) and a control group (who are not interested in anime culture).
For students, taking into account rural realities, two anime in the genre of sports were selected. Such animated series were "Volleyball!!" (Haikyuu!!) and "Kuroko Basketball" (Kuroko no Basket). In physical education classes and at home, the students watched the animation chosen by the students. Through Yandex forms and messengers, the study participants filled out questionnaires, took tests, and received instant feedback on any questions they had.
The results of the study and their discussion. The analysis of the data showed a statistically significant difference in the level of motivation between the groups. For example, in the experimental group, attendance at sports sections was 15% higher than in the control group.
A survey in the experimental group revealed that the use of anime increased the interest of schoolchildren in basketball classes by 23%, in volleyball classes by 28%, and increased awareness of following the principles of a healthy lifestyle by 34.7%.
Conclusion. The research scientists with whom the students shared their impressions of watching identified several key aspects of the influence of anime on the formation of a positive attitude towards sports and physical activity. The selected anime series broadcast idealized images of physically developed and active characters striving to achieve high results in sports. Thanks to this, young viewers created role models to follow, and there was a desire to develop their own physical skills.  In addition, anime presented sports as an exciting and exciting activity, which increased the interest of students in classes. For example, Japanese cartoons show key qualities for the player, such as: cohesion, responsibility, discipline, team spirit, perseverance and perseverance.

References

1. Musafirov M.K.,Pakhar V.V., Podkovalnikov S.L., Khachetlova S.M. The effectiveness of extracurricular classes on the history of the olympic movement for students.Teoriya i praktika fizicheskoy kultury. 2025. No. 4. p. 68.