International experience in the use of martial arts in physical activity and rehabilitation programs for war veterans
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15391/ed.2026-2.04Keywords:
war veterans, physical activity, rehabilitation, martial arts, adaptive sportAbstract
Purpose: to generalize and systematize international scientific experience in the use of martial arts within physical activity and rehabilitation programs for war veterans, as well as to identify the main trends, directions, and specific features of applying different types of martial arts when working with this population. Material and Methods. The study employed analysis and synthesis of scientific sources addressing the use of physical activity and martial arts in rehabilitation programs for war veterans. The literature search was conducted using scientometric databases (including Google Scholar), open-access scientific repositories, and specialized journals, applying relevant English-language search queries. Systematization and comparative analysis of the selected sources, as well as quantitative summarization and visualization of results, were carried out using a structural-logical approach and Microsoft Excel software. Results: the analysis of scientific publications demonstrated that the inclusion of martial arts in physical activity and rehabilitation programs for war veterans is associated with positive changes in both physical condition and psycho-emotional well-being of participants. The reviewed studies reported reductions in the severity of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, anxiety, and depressive manifestations, along with increased engagement of veterans in regular physical activity. Considerable variability was identified in program duration, intensity, and organizational formats, ranging from short-term interventions to long-term rehabilitation courses lasting several months. Participant samples also differed in age, physical fitness level, and presence of psycho-emotional disorders. Group-based formats, social interaction, and the incorporation of mindful movement elements played an important role in program effectiveness. Overall, the findings indicate a predominance of adapted and methodically controlled forms of martial arts and a tendency toward integrating their elements into comprehensive physical activity programs. Conclusions. The results confirm the feasibility of considering martial arts as a promising form of physical activity within rehabilitation programs for war veterans. At the same time, the effectiveness of such programs largely depends on the selected type of martial art, the level of its adaptation, and an individualized approach to participants. The obtained generalizations may serve as a theoretical basis for further empirical research and for the development of practice-oriented rehabilitation programs
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