Abstract
The development of civilization and technical progress on the one hand provides many amenities, and on the other hand limits the natural need for movement. Awareness of the importance of physical activity in human life can be a factor in preventing sedenteric lifestyle. The paper reviews literature on physical activity and the frequency with which it is undertaken by people representing different age groups, with particular emphasis on the inhabitants of Poland and Slovakia. A review of scientific publications indicates that physical activity is one of the most important factors conditioning health, so you should take care of it at every stage of life. It is worth remembering the need to individually adjust the type and intensity of physical activity so that it is safe and gives the most health benefits. Physical activity undertaken from an early age and the positive experiences related to it, shape the habits that favor maintaining a healthy lifestyle in the later stages of life. There is a need to take actions aimed at popularizing physical activity as one of the elements of a healthy lifestyle.

Key words:
recreation, psychophysical health, health education