Features of applying the fitness boxing program for improving the resilience among men aged 18 to 20 years

Abstract

Introduction. In today’s environment – characterized by increased stress levels, uncertainty about the future, and insufficient physical activity – the issue of declining psychological resilience among youth has become particularly relevant. Young men aged 18-20 are especially vulnerable to emotional overload caused by academic pressure, social adaptation, and the psychological challenges associated with martial law conditions. One of the effective ways to strengthen both physical and mental health is the implementation of physical activity programs incorporating fitness boxing – a modern, non-contact form of martial arts that combines endurance, strength, coordination, and psycho-emotional self-regulation training. Purpose of the study – to scientifically substantiate, develop, and experimentally verify the effectiveness of a fitness boxing program aimed at enhancing the level of resilience in young men aged 18-20 years. Methods. A comprehensive set of complementary research methods was applied, including theoretical analysis of scientific literature, sociological and pedagogical methods, psychodiagnostic assessment using the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10), and mathematical statistics for verifying the reliability of observed changes. The study involved 24 male students from Kyiv aged 18-20, who participated in a 12-week program consisting of three training sessions per week based on the fitness boxing methodology. Results. The developed program consisted of three sequential stages – adaptation, development, and stabilization–reflection – and was based on the principles of progressivity, variability, individualization, and the integration of physical and psychological components. Following the intervention, a statistically significant increase in the mean resilience score was recorded – from 27.4 to 35.6 points (p < 0.01). The most pronounced improvements were observed in the subscales of self-efficacy, emotional regulation, adaptability to change, and perception of stress as a source of personal growth. These outcomes indicate that the participants demonstrated higher levels of emotional stability, self-control, cognitive flexibility, and confidence in their own abilities. Conclusions. The fitness boxing program proved to be an effective tool for developing resilience in young men aged 18–20, as it combines physical training with social-psychological support and reflective practices. Its implementation is advisable within health and recreational programs in higher education institutions, fitness clubs, and youth psychological support centers. The findings expand the theoretical understanding of the mechanisms of resilience formation through physical activity and open up prospects for further interdisciplinary research in the field of health promotion and psychological well-being.