In this article, motivation is considered as the main factor of interest in physical education and sports, taking into account professional qualities. The core of any activity is the need - motivational component. The authors consider all these components of motivation in unity. The goal of the work is determined – the identification of a motivational factor affecting the formation of professional qualities and the nature of those involved with an increase in interest in physical education and sports. In this regard, determine the main tasks of the work performed described in the article. The problem of studying motivation for physical education and sports is considered, both from the inside and from the outside in relation to the child, schoolchild, student and to the person in general. Summing up the described work, the authors once again emphasize the need to study the motivational factor for the students' subsequent interest in physical education and sports, which in turn is the starting point for the formation of professional qualities. In addition, the systematic study of motivation and the process of developing interest in physical education and sports is the most important condition for raising a person’s personal physical culture.