Cooperative Learning (AC) is emerging as a tool that places students at the centre of the teaching and learning process in the area of Physical Education (PE). The objective of the present investigation was to analyse the impact of AC on the satisfaction of Basic Psychological Needs (BPNES) against a traditional teaching model in students of Compulsory Secondary Education (ESO). For the analysis, a total sample consisting of 185 participants was taken, and a quantitative method with a quasi-experimental design was used. Participants experienced six sessions through cooperative challenges. The BPNES Measurement Scale adapted to PE was used as an instrument. The results showed a statistically significant improvement in autonomy, competence and social relations in the experimental group. An active methodology based on cooperative learning in PE classes improves the satisfaction of BPNES.