Optimal forms of physical activity for students to prevent pain and tension in the joints

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PhD, Associate Professor T.N. Shutova
Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow

Objective of the study is to identify the optimal forms of physical activity for students to prevent pain and tension in the joints.
Methods and structure of the study. The scientific work was conducted in June 2025 on vulnerable segments in different parts of the body and degrees of tension (‘no tension’, ‘rare’, “variable” and ‘constant’ pain) in 798 respondents, aged 17-25, mostly future economists. The survey covered general well-being, the degree of tension in the joints, spine, headaches, pain in the neck, eyes, and arch of the foot (19 questions); the level of physical activity was analysed (‘low,’ ‘medium,’ ‘high,’ ‘very high’).
Results and conclusions. Respondents with an active lifestyle experience less tension in various parts of the body compared to those with a low level of physical activity. They also experience fewer headaches and less weakness and lethargy throughout the body. Girls experience ‘variable’ pain more often than boys (weak correlation). The data obtained are confirmed by the results of studies in other countries, where the same pain points and the beneficial effects of regular physical activity have been identified. Physical culture classes should expand the range of therapeutic physical culture and health-improving gymnastics complexes, with an emphasis on accessible physical activity and detailing the muscles being strengthened, especially problem areas such as the cervical and lumbar spine and the shoulder joint.

Keywords: physical culture, discomfort and areas of tension, students, physical activity, ecosystem for the exchange of health practices.

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