FITNESS AS A RESOURCE FOR WOMEN’S PSYCHOLOGICAL RESILIENCE IN CONDITIONS OF WAR AND STRESS

Abstract

The article examines the impact of fitness classes as a means of supporting women's psycho-emotional well-being in the context of socio-political instability in Ukraine. Martial law, forced displacement, loss, and daily stress significantly affect the psychological state of women who, in addition to maintaining family welfare, are actively engaged in professional and community life. Under these conditions, the formation of psychological resilience becomes a key objective of the modern health support system.

The purpose of the study is to substantiate and analyze the influence of fitness classes on the development of women's psycho-emotional resilience in the face of current socio-political challenges in Ukraine, related to martial law, forced displacement, and increased stress levels, through a survey-based approach.

The methodology is based on a comprehensive approach, including an analysis of recent studies in the fields of psychophysiology, social psychology, fitness, and mental health protection.

The scientific novelty lies in deepening the understanding of fitness as a tool for psychological support of women during times of crisis. It has been proven that fitness classes contribute not only to improved physical condition, but also to the development of stress resilience, emotional stability, and increased vitality. Opportunities for integrating fitness programs into practices of psychoprevention and social rehabilitation for women are identified.

A survey was conducted among women (n=125) of different age groups who regularly participate in fitness classes, aiming to assess changes in self-esteem, anxiety levels, mood, and motivation. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to analyze the collected data.

Conclusions. The current situation in Ukraine, marked by ongoing military conflict, forced displacement, and economic instability, has had a significant impact on the psycho-emotional well-being of the population, particularly women. Women simultaneously fulfill caregiving roles within the family while actively participating in professional and social spheres, which increases their overall stress load. In such circumstances, building psychological resilience among women becomes a crucial task. One of the most accessible and effective tools for supporting this resilience is physical activity-especially fitness classes-which help relieve emotional tension, reduce anxiety, and restore internal resources. Survey results (n=125) confirm that the majority of respondents report improved emotional well-being following regular fitness sessions. Thus, in wartime conditions, fitness is not only a form of physical activity but also a valuable psycho-emotional resource that can strengthen women’s psychological endurance and serve as an effective component of support and rehabilitation programs.