From Kinesthetic to Embodied: A 115-Year Bibliometric Analysis of Physical Activity Integration in Learning Research
Jeni Arianti Pa Nyola

Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia

Abstract

This bibliometric performance analysis examines the evolution, geographic distribution, and interdisciplinary characteristics of physical activity in learning research through systematic analysis of 1,063 publications (1910-2025) across three key terminologies. Historical evolution demonstrates paradigmatic shifts from early kinesthetic learning foundations (1910) through embodied learning theory emergence (1998) to applied physical activity learning approaches (1997). Geographic analysis shows Western dominance (52.3% of total publications) while significant Asian contributions, particularly Indonesia^s emergence in applied domains (84 publications). This research provides the first comprehensive mapping of physical activity in learning research landscape, revealing evolutionary patterns supporting evidence-based curriculum reforms integrating movement and cognition.

Keywords: Physical activity learning, Embodied learning, Kinesthetic learning, Movement-based learning, Exercise and cognition

Topic: Education for sustainable development