Фізична активність і дзюдо в адаптації вимушених українських мігрантів у США

The relevance of this study stems from the urgent need to identify effective strategies for the psychophysiological adaptation of Ukrainian citizens who have been forced into migration due to war, as well as to explore the integration of sports practices-specifically judo-as a means of supporting mental health, social interaction, and bodily recovery in a new environment. The full-scale war in Ukraine has led to a sharp increase in the number of migrants, including veteran athletes who have had to relocate abroad. Under these new sociocultural conditions, there is a pressing need not only for physical rehabilitation but also for psychosocial adaptation among athletes experiencing stress, community loss, and identity disruption. Objective. To determine the impact of regular judo practice, conducted under the guidance of Ukrainian-speaking immigrant coaches, on the psychophysiological state and social adaptation of Ukrainian forced migrants in the United States. Methods. The study involved 204 Ukrainian forced migrants aged 21 to 58. The experimental group (n = 102) participated in regular judo training sessions in U.S.-based sports clubs, while the control group (n = 102) did not engage in any structured physical activity. All participants completed the SF-36 Health Survey (Short Form) and the IPAQSF (International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Form). Results. The findings demonstrate a significant positive effect of regular judo practice on both the psychophysiological well-being and social adaptation of participants under forced migration conditions. The training program-combining physical discipline, breathwork, and mind-body modules-proved effective even among individuals with no prior professional athletic experience. Conclusion. The proposed approach, integrating judo as an embodied practice with techniques of self-observation and psychoregulation, may serve as a practical tool for supporting psychophysiological health and social adjustment among Ukrainian migrants. This model has strong potential for incorporation into broader physical rehabilitation and psychosocial support programs for displaced populations in the United States.