The social significance of youth sports in the city of Barnaul (based on research materials in the city of Barnaul)

Physical culture and sports play an important role in the lives of young people, contributing to the formation of a healthy lifestyle, strengthening social ties, and personal development. The study is dedicated to examining the influence of sports activity on the physical, psychological, social, and intellectual well-being of the youth in the city of Barnaul. The work looks at how regular engagement in sports affects the levels of social involvement, communication skills, self-esteem, and stress resistance among young people. Particular attention is paid to the perception of sports not just as a form of leisure, but as a significant resource for self-realization, socialization, and improvement of overall quality of life, as well as the development of skills necessary in modern society, such as goal-setting, discipline, and teamwork. Additionally, social mechanisms through which sports activity contributes to the formation of positive behavior patterns and adaptation of youth in the rapidly changing social environment are analyzed. Within the framework of the topic, a methodology was developed and a sociological study was conducted among the youth of Barnaul (ages 18-35). A total of 231 respondents, selected by gender and age (quota sampling), participated in the survey. In the second stage, expert interviews (n=6) were conducted with specialists in physical culture and youth policy. This research allows for a deeper understanding of the impact of sports activity on various aspects of youth life in Barnaul. Based on the results of the study, the following conclusions were made: First, regular sports activities significantly improve the physical and psychological health of young individuals. Second, sports activity helps strengthen social connections and develop teamwork skills. Third, participation in sports events positively influences the formation of value orientations and motivation for personal growth. Fourth, sports assist youth in better adapting to social changes and reduce the levels of stress. Thus, the study emphasizes the importance of developing sports infrastructure and programs aimed at involving youth in an active lifestyle as a means of comprehensive improvement of their quality of life and social integration.

youth, sport, healthy lifestyle, social significance, physical activity, motivation, socialization, sports involvement, personal development, health