Modern innovative approaches to organizing physical and health-improving activities in higher education institutions of Ukraine

In the current context of social transformations, distance learning, and martial law, the issue of preserving the physical and mental health of student youth is gaining particular importance. One of the key tools for supporting student resilience is the innovative organization of physical and health-improving activities in higher education institutions, which necessitates the search for flexible and personalized forms of physical education adapted to the digital environment and the real needs of youth. Research aim: The purpose of the study is to substantiate effective innovative approaches to organizing physical and health-improving activities in higher education institutions of Ukraine, considering changes in the educational environment, digital transformation, the needs of student youth, and current socio- cultural challenges. Particular attention is paid to analyzing the level of student involvement in innovative forms of motor activity, the impact of digital technologies on motivation for physical activity, and identifying students’ expectations regarding the improvement of health-related initiatives in universities. Research methods: theoretical analysis, questionnaire survey, and methods of mathematical statistics. Results. The survey results show that the most popular forms of activity among students are fitness apps (28.6%), video lessons/training (34.2%), participation in online challenges and sports flash mobs (17.9%), while 37.4% are not engaged in any innovative form of activity. More than 62% of respondents recognize the positive influence of digital tools on their motivation for physical activity. The most common formats include online fitness (33.1%), virtual competitions (20.8%), and fitness gadgets (18.5%). Student expectations for improving innovative health-related activity in universities indicate that the majority (53.4%) require flexible learning formats; 41% emphasize the need for personalized training programs with teacher or trainer support; 29.4% express interest in integrating physical activity with psychological practices (relaxation, breathing exercises); 35.4% support gamification of physical and health-improving activities. Conclusion. Effective physical and health-improving activities in higher education institutions require digital transformation, individualized approaches, and greater student engagement through modern tools of motivation, support, and self- development.