Comparative Evaluation of Male and Female Gymnastics Players' Motivation for Sports Participation

Abstract

The study examines gender-based differences in motivational factors influencing sports participation among state-level male and female gymnastics players in Delhi. Using the Sport Motivation Scale-6 (SMS-6), which assesses six subtypes of motivation under Self-Determination Theory, the responses of 46 gymnasts (23 male, 23 female) aged 14–18 were analyzed. The results indicate that male gymnasts exhibit significantly higher levels of intrinsic motivation, integrated regulation, identified regulation, and introjected regulation. No significant difference was found in amotivation, while external regulation approached significance. Findings suggest tailored motivational strategies can enhance athlete development and retention, particularly through gender-sensitive coaching practices