Digital learning technologies in sport education: a narrative review on motivation, mental health, and health behavior change

Digital learning technologies have increasingly transformed sport education by reshaping teaching, learning, and health-related practices. This narrative review synthesized evidence on the role of digital learning technologies in sport education, focusing on motivation, mental health and psychological well-being, and health behavior change. Peer-reviewed studies published between January 2000 and December 2025 were reviewed, including research on mobile learning applications, wearable technologies, virtual and augmented reality, and artificial intelligence–based adaptive learning systems. The findings suggest that these technologies can enhance motivation by promoting learner engagement, autonomy, perceived competence, and self-regulated learning. They may also support mental health through reduced anxiety, improved emotional regulation, and increased self-awareness. Furthermore, digital technologies facilitate health behavior change by encouraging physical activity participation and healthier lifestyle behaviors through self-monitoring, feedback, and goal setting. However, their effectiveness depends on pedagogical design, ethical implementation, and contextual factors. The current evidence is limited by the prevalence of short-term interventions, small sample sizes, and reliance on self-reported measures. Future research should employ longitudinal and experimental designs to better understand the long-term impact of digital learning technologies in sport education. Overall, strategically integrating these technologies may support educational, psychological, and health-related outcomes in sport education.