MECHANISMS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY INFLUENCE THROUGH STRENGTH FITNESS ON THE MENTAL AND INTELLECTUAL PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS IN AGRICULTURAL HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the impact of strength fitness training on the functional state, physical development, and cognitive performance of students at a higher education institution of an agricultural profile. To achieve this aim, the following research methods were used: literature review (theoretical methods), empirical methods, pedagogical experiment, pedagogical testing, and methods of mathematical statistics. The relationships between indicators of physical and mental performance were studied and identified based on the results of test-based academic tasks completed by second-year students of the Faculty of Mechanics, Energy, and Information Technologies over the course of the academic year. The patterns of the influence of strength fitness loads of varying intensity on the speed of students’ cognitive processes during modular weeks and examination sessions were traced. It was noted that monitoring, assessment, and timely correction of mental performance and the functional state of the central nervous system through appropriately targeted strength fitness loads have significant practical importance, as mental performance and nervous system functions change cyclically during these periods. The basic requirements characterizing the professional activity of mechanical engineers in industrial settings were determined.