Physical activity as a means of preventing accelerated biological aging in young students

Physical activity is one of the leading factors in maintaining the functional state of the body, preserving health, and preventing accelerated biological aging in young students. Despite the considerable number of studies, the issue of substantiating its role in slowing the rate of biological aging remains relevant. The aim of the article was, based on an analysis of scientific sources and the results of previous studies, to analyze the role of physical activity in preventing accelerated biological aging in young students and to substantiate its importance for maintaining the functional state of the body and promoting the health of higher education students. Analysis, synthesis, and generalization of scientific and methodological literature, comparative analysis of scientific research results, and systematization and interpretation of the data obtained were used. The results of the authors’ previous study on determining students’ biological age according to their level of physical activity were also used. Current scientific approaches to assessing biological age and the role of physical activity in preventing accelerated biological aging were summarized. It was established that biological age is a composite indicator of the functional state of the body. It increases over time and depends on an individual’s intrinsic characteristics, lifestyle, and environmental influences. One of the key factors in preventing and slowing the rate of biological aging is the development of a healthy lifestyle, important components of which include a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, avoidance of harmful habits, mental health, a work–rest schedule, and a sufficient level of physical activity. It was noted that young students exhibit a gap between their level of physical activity and the physiological needs of the body, which may create preconditions for accelerated biological aging processes even at a young age. The results of the authors’ own study confirmed the relationship between the level of physical activity and indicators of biological age in higher education students. Students with a high level of physical activity were found to have lower actual biological age values and slower rates of aging than students who do not exercise systematically. It was noted that systematic physical activity is an effective means of preventing accelerated biological aging, helps maintain the functional state of the body, and promotes the health of young students.