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This study, grounded in Xiang Qun theory, investigates the effects of an optimized Wushu teaching method on the learning outcomes and physical fitness of children aged 9–10. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 42 third-grade students from Li Yuan Central School in Shanxi Province, randomly assigned to an experimental group P = 21 and a control group P = 21 . The experimental group received an optimized teaching method based on Xiang Qun theory (integrating situational teaching, peer-assisted learning, physical conditioning, and interest cultivation), while the control group received traditional instruction. After an 18-week teaching experiment, results showed that the experimental group significantly outperformed the control group in Wushu routine performance (8.032±0.793 vs. 7.393±0.691, p < 0.01, Cohen’s d=0.87). In terms of physical fitness, the experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in sit-and-reach 22.143 ± 3.005????. 18.809 ± 4.082, P < 0.01, P = 0.94 and one-minute rope skipping 100.857 ± 9.372????. 95.381 ± 6.644, P < 0.05, P = 0.73 compared to the control group. The optimized teaching method—which applies Xiang Qun theory by transforming training methods from sports within the same event group (e.g., rhythmic gymnastics, figure skating) into Wushu teaching strategies—effectively enhances primary school students’ Wushu learning outcomes and physical qualities such as flexibility, coordination, and muscular endurance, offering new perspectives for the reform of primary school Wushu instruction.
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