Impact of Physical Education on the Physical and Mental Wellness of Prison Inmates in Katsina State

Physical education and recreational activities in correctional settings offer significant benefits for the physical health, mental wellbeing, and rehabilitation prospects of incarcerated individuals. This study examines the impact of structured physical education programmes on the physical and mental wellness of inmates in a correctional facility in Katsina State, North West Nigeria. A quasi-experimental design was employed, with 80 male inmates randomly assigned to an experimental group receiving a 12-week structured physical education programme incorporating fitness training, team sports, and cooperative games, and a control group receiving standard facility recreational provisions. Physical wellness was assessed through cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, and body composition measurements, while mental wellness was evaluated using the General Health Questionnaire and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Post-intervention analysis reveals statistically significant improvements in cardiovascular fitness and muscular endurance in the experimental group, alongside significant reductions in anxiety and depression scores and improved self-esteem ratings compared to the control group. Qualitative feedback from participants highlights improved interpersonal relationships and sense of purpose as additional benefits. Recommendations include institutionalising structured physical education within the rehabilitation programmes of Nigerian correctional facilities, training correctional officers in physical activity facilitation, and advocating for the inclusion of physical education in the Nigerian Correctional Service's rehabilitation framework. Keywords: physical education, prison inmates, wellness, Katsina State, rehabilitation