Is it permissible to punish the loser in games by making them run or do push-ups or similar actions, without compensation or benefit to the other party, and with the intention of motivation and fun?

Competitions without financial compensation are permissible in lawful matters, such as the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) race with Aisha and with Salamah ibn al-Akwa’, his wrestling with Rukanah, and his approval of a group of people lifting a stone to determine the strongest among them.

Obligating the loser in games to perform an exercise that offers no benefit to the other competitors is not a form of financial compensation. If the game itself is permissible, there is no objection to playing it on the condition that the loser performs the exercise, as there is no financial compensation involved in this scenario.

The loser is not obligated to perform the exercise, because this agreement falls under the category of a promise, and fulfilling a promise is considered commendable by the majority of scholars, not obligatory. There is a difference of opinion among scholars regarding its obligation; some deem it obligatory, while others elaborate on it based on the type of promise.