Characteristics of self-assessment of physical fitness and health status among rural and urban adolescents

Given the significant influence of the social environment and the different conditions of physical education in urban and rural schools, the study of adolescents’ self-assessment of physical fitness and health is relevant for their physical development and self-awareness. The purpose of the study is to determine the peculiarities of selfassessment of physical fitness and health of adolescents living and studying in urban and rural areas. Material and Methods. The study involved 80 boys from urban and rural general secondary education institutions. The following methods were used to solve the tasks of our study: analysis of literary sources, the questionnaire “Self-description of physical development”, methods of mathematical statistics. The results of the study showed significant differences in the self-assessment of physical fitness between boys from Kyiv and Bila Tserkva district. In Kyiv, more pupils have overestimated (20 %) and high (40 %) self-esteem, while in rural areas the average level prevails (60 %). Low self-esteem is reported by 10 % of boys in rural areas and only 5% in urban areas. This indicates that urban students are more confident, which may be due to better conditions for physical education and higher social standards. Rural adolescents demonstrate a more holistic understanding of health, linking it to physical activity, physical abilities, and general self-esteem. Their perception of health is shaped by an active lifestyle, access to the natural environment, and social norms that promote physical activity. Urban adolescents are more likely to associate health with specific physical characteristics, such as coordination and flexibility, which may be associated with popular physical activities among urban youth. Their perception of health may be more superficial and focused on the aesthetic aspect. Conclusions. The study clearly demonstrated that the place of residence has a significant impact on how adolescents assess their physical fitness. Those who live in rural areas, due to their active lifestyle, have formed a more realistic view of their physical capabilities, especially in terms of health and strength. Instead, urban adolescents, under the influence of modern beauty ideals, often overestimate their physical fitness, not noticing some shortcomings.