Physical activity and fitness are linked to better cognitive function in children
In short: A systematic review of studies involving children aged 5 to 13 found that physical fitness and single bouts of activity are associated with improved cognitive functioning. The researchers also observed connections between physical activity and brain areas that support complex cognitive processes.
The review synthesized data from various study designs, including cross-sectional, longitudinal, acute, and intervention trials. While the findings suggest positive associations between activity and cognition, the evidence for academic achievement remains mixed. A major limitation was the high risk of bias in many studies due to a lack of randomized controlled trials and insufficient information on participant characteristics.
Why it matters: Physical activity appears beneficial for children's brain function, though more research is needed to understand its exact impact on school performance.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Research: Donnelly et al. (2016). Physical Activity, Fitness, Cognitive Function, and Academic Achievement in Children. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.
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