Abstract
The shift in Kazakhstan's primary education curriculum, especially regarding physical education, reflects a need for a balanced approach between intellectual development and physical health. As educational reforms increase cognitive demands on students, there is concern over a decline in physical activity, which is crucial for children's overall health. The traditional goal of developing a well-rounded individual remains, but achieving this now requires fostering an awareness of the importance of physical health as a core human value.However, the growing focus on mental and psycho-emotional development has overshadowed physical activity, contributing to a reduction in natural motor behaviors among younger students. This imbalance suggests the need for strategies to boost children's motivation for independent physical activity, not just through extrinsic incentives but also by nurturing an intrinsic appreciation of physical health.To address this, promoting a sense of autonomy in physical education has become a central issue in Kazakhstani primary schools. Developing students' self-directed engagement in physical exercises and sports could be vital in counteracting the negative effects of reduced physical movement, helping students form lifelong healthy habits.