Physical education in the 21st century: from a conscious need to a lifestyle

The article is devoted to the analysis of the evolution of the paradigm of physical culture in the context of post-industrial society of the 21st century. It examines the transition from a utilitarian model based on the conscious need for disease prevention and maintaining working capacity to a model in which physical activity becomes an integral and valuable component of daily lifestyle. The author identifies key drivers of this transformation, including the spread of the philosophy of holistic wellness, digitalization and personalization of the approach through wearable devices, and the socialization of practices through mass amateur events. Simultaneously, systemic socio-economic barriers hindering the universal integration of the new paradigm are detailed, such as economic and infrastructural inequality, time poverty, and information overload. The conclusion is made that the final establishment of physical culture as a universal element of lifestyle requires a balanced combination of individual value changes and targeted state policy to create an inclusive sports and fitness environment.