Development or Decline of Physical Culture? Physical Activity of the Alpha Generation from the Polish Perspective

Abstract

There is evidence of a decline in interest in physical activity among the Alpha Generation. It is therefore evident that physical culture must adapt to the specific characteristics of the youngest generation if it is to survive. In light of the aforementioned considerations, the objective of this humanist article is to ascertain whether physical culture can evolve in a manner that will ensure its continued existence or whether it is on a trajectory towards decline. This qualitative research presents a summary of the observations made and allows us to formulate a general thesis. The characteristics of the Alpha Generation are presented herewith, with an emphasis on the advantages and disadvantages inherent in their enhanced digital proficiency and the concomitant challenges to social cohesion. It was indicated that their expectations of physical activities were focused on e-sports and smart technology. It can be considered that the next phase of physical culture development will take place through the introduction of e-sports and smart technology into the physical activities undertaken by the Alpha Generation. At the same time, this development must be sustainable, in that it must still recognize the traditional values of physical culture. This will ensure that the generation in question functions well both with and without technology.