Synergy between movement and ideas: how physical activity develops creative thinking

Abstract

<p>Aim of the study: In today's society, dominated by technology and passive leisure, young people's physical activity is declining, and the creative competences needed for personal and professional development are also weakening. However, traditional education systems often separate physical activity from creative education, failing to appreciate the interconnectedness and synergy between the two. It is therefore important to find methods and strategies to deliberately integrate creative practices into the physical education process in order to fully develop the younger generation. The aim of this article is to discuss physical activity methods that promote creativity in leisure activities among young people. The focus on young people is particularly relevant as this is a critical period for both physical and cognitive development, with potentially long-lasting implications for adult creativity and problem-solving skills. The problem of research: what are methods to promote creativity in young people through physical activity? </p> Methods: Systematic literature analysis and ecological dynamical system theory. The process of a systematic literature review involves several key stages: Search, Assessment, Synthesis and Analysis (SALSA). The literature search was conducted in major scientific databases (SCOPUS, EBSCO Publishing, ScienceDirect, Taylor & Francis Journals; Springer Journals, SAGE journals), with a priority on open access sources. The work is based on ecological dynamical system theory and the principles of non-linear pedagogy, as it emphasises the power of physical activity actions to promote creativity in young people. Understanding that physical activity, when properly maintained, has a positive impact on a young person's later life: improving creative abilities, decision-making, emotional well-being, and psychological health balance. </p> Conclusions: Physical activity helps young people enhance memory, imagination, and motivation to create, while fostering creative problem-solving, communication, and cooperation. These skills are key to realizing personal potential, self-expression, and confidence. </p>