Gamification, the practice of adding game-like elements to non-game scenarios, has been an intrinsic part of human culture for centuries. Especially in today’s sporting world, its role is pivotal. Integrating game dynamics not only intensifies engagement but can also mold the brain’s development in unique ways.
Read more: Exploring Gamification in Sports & Its Impact on the BrainDiving Deep into the Gaming Phenomenon:
Research indicates that an overwhelming 97% of American teens, aged 12 to 17, have engaged in video gaming. Additionally, about half of the global internet population, roughly 500 million individuals, are active in social gaming. This powerful allure of gaming has driven professionals across various fields to integrate gaming techniques into real-life scenarios. The core idea behind this movement, termed ‘Gamification’, aims to direct or inspire human behavior. After all, people tend to be more motivated when there’s an element of play. As Julian Nagelsmann, the head coach of Red Bull Leipzig, eloquently puts it, “Boredom hinders learning.”
The Science Behind Gaming:
Playing games triggers numerous reactions within our brains. One notable effect is the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that induces feelings of euphoria. Studies have shown that in this elevated state, our brains absorb more information. However, there’s a caveat: dopamine has addictive properties. Scientific investigations also reveal that gamers outperform non-gamers in the Stroop test, suggesting a higher ability among gamers to focus and control impulses. Given the essentiality of reaction speed and focus in gaming, this outcome is expected.
Playing games triggers numerous reactions within our brains. One notable effect is the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that induces feelings of euphoria. Studies have shown that in this elevated state, our brains absorb more information. However, there’s a caveat: dopamine has addictive properties. Scientific investigations also reveal that gamers outperform non-gamers in the Stroop test, suggesting a higher ability among gamers to focus and control impulses. Given the essentiality of reaction speed and focus in gaming, this outcome is expected.
Gamification’s Role in Sports:
Embedded Fitness: A burgeoning area in sports is “embedded fitness”, which is about infusing games into fitness routines. This interactive approach primarily aims to make exercise more enjoyable.
Soccer Training: Gamification is not restricted to fitness alone. Soccer coaches frequently employ games in their training sessions. These range from simple matches to more strategic games designed to promote specific behaviors. For instance, Bas van Baar, youth coach for NEC O12, frequently employs “Deliberate Play”, a strategy echoing Gamification’s principles. As Bas mentions, the essence of deliberate play involves intentional ‘playing’. This not only involves engaging exercises but also has hidden objectives, emphasizing overall player development, including personality traits.
Real-life FIFA Skill Games: A quintessential example of Gamification in sports is the FIFA Skill games in gaming consoles. For those unfamiliar, these are mini-games played during the game’s loading times. Yet, these games can also be replicated in real life, as illustrated in this video clip
Gamification Tools for Sports:
In my enterprise, Sportbrein, we employ SMARTGOALS, an interactive training approach with a plethora of game options to challenge players maximally. However, Gamification can be implemented without expensive tools. Task cards or relay games are equally effective in driving desired behaviors.
In Conclusion:
Incorporating games into sports training is by no means a novel concept. Trainers are constantly on the lookout for new ways to introduce game elements, aiming for heightened alertness and quicker information assimilation among players. Yet, one must be wary of the addictive potential. At its core, employing these gaming techniques and principles stands as the foundation of Gamification. As a closing thought, consider the classic game of “tic-tac-toe” translated into a sports-specific context, showcased in this video.