ASSESSING THE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF DEBRECEN, FACULTY OF EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN AND SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

Abstract

Health indices of the Hungarian population have not improved over the past decade. In the development of various types of diseases (coronary, tumour, locomotor, psychic) one of the main risks is the low level of physical activity. Both national and international surveys support the fact that the amount of exercise done by the majority of the population is insufficient to keep fit or improve fitness. Emphasizing the relationship between physical activity and a healthy way of life is continuously a case of issue among healthcare and sports experts as well as political decision makers. Maintaining and improving the quantitative and qualitative features of human resources is implausible without the improvement of general health conditions. That we can show a relation between qualification and physical activity is not a novelty. Several studies have analysed the sporting habits of university students in depth. Students of the Faculty of Education for Children and Special Educational Needs at the University of Debrecen are going to work in fields (Nursery School Teachers, Infant and Child Development specialists, Special Needs Teachers) where they will play a key role in educating young children on a healthy way of life. Besides acting as a role model, the maintaining and improving of our students’ health is of paramount importance, as a healthy employee can contribute to the improvement of corporate efficiency and achievement.