Abstract. The article addresses the problem of deteriorating health among students, caused by hypodynamia, chronic stress, psychoemotional overstrain, as well as additional challenges related to martial law in Ukraine. The feasibility of using recreational kayaking as an effective health-improving means is substantiated. Recreational kayaking offers advantages over traditional physical education due to moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, engagement of large muscle groups, nature therapy, emotional appeal, social interaction, and adaptability. Based on the analysis of scientific sources from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, quantitative data on the impact of kayaking on students' physical fitness, functional state of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, and psychoemotional sphere are presented. It has been established that regular recreational kayaking sessions contribute to: an increase in trunk muscle endurance by 136.6%, an increase in upper limb strength by 48.2%, improvement in speed-strength qualities by 12–31%, an increase in anaerobic threshold by 25.9%, optimization of heart rate variability, stress reduction (confirmed by biochemical markers – cortisol decrease), as well as increased motivation for physical activity, self-esteem, and socialization. Methodological approaches to organizing recreational kayaking health-improving classes in higher education institutions are proposed, particularly for students with weakened health and persons with special needs. The recommended frequency is 2–3 times per week, 60–90 minutes per session, at an intensity of 120–150 bpm (60–75% of maximum heart rate). It is concluded that recreational kayaking is an accessible, safe, and highly effective means of comprehensively improving students' physical, functional, and psychoemotional health.