Investigation of the impact of daily physical education on healthy lifestyles in Southern Transdanubia

Abstract

The introduction of daily physical education in 2012 brought about significant changes in school sports, which clearly extend to the promotion of healthy lifestyles. The aim was to instill a demand for daily physical activity and health consciousness among the younger generation, integrating these practices into their daily lives. In our research, we surveyed the population of various types of settlements in Southern Transdanubia regarding aspects of healthy living, such as physical and mental balance, stress tolerance, stress and conflict management, issues related to overweight and obesity, and harmful addictions. An online questionnaire was completed by 1,089 respondents. For statistical analysis, the Chi-square test was applied. Our results reveal generational differences in perceptions across different age groups. Significant differences were observed between settlement types, with stress management proving more challenging in urban environments, while conflict management requires further development among residents of smaller communities. The obesity rates found in our study are more favorable compared to national averages. We attribute a crucial role to schools and their staff in emphasizing the rejection of harmful addictions from an early age. Daily physical education is essential in this regard, as it fosters the development of values and norms that will play a decisive role in the future lives of today's youth.