EN
On the basis of selected texts, the author is trying to trace and capture the process of formation of the social and cultural pattern of physical exercise in Poland over the centuries. Such a model in a limited form only appears in the interwar Poland (1918–1939). After WW2, in the Polish People’s Republic, the rank of physical culture and sport in the country assured its universality and folk character, which had positive impact on building social and cultural pattern of physical exercise. Political changes hampered further activity in this field. Currently, this model is being created due to the spontaneity and activity of communities. The starting point for discussion is the concept of culture itself as well as two books: “Nauki o kulturze fizycznej” (Physical Culture Sciences) by A. Pawłucki and “Powszechne dzieje wychowania fizycznego i sportu” (Universal History of Physical Education and Sport) by R. Wroczyński.