The Effects of Physical Activity on Learning and Academic Performance

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Some could even argue the case for more physical activity incorporated into school to help battle the rise of childhood obesity, which is at an all-time high in the United States. The American Heart Association states that “one in three American kids and teens is overweight or obese” (Overweight). Because children are in school most of the day and are normally not allowed outside at night, it is an excellent idea for schools to provide situations for the children to be active. Providing these outlets such as recess, a physical education class, and periodic classroom breaks would aid in better concentration, memory and classroom behavior overall. The unhealthy condition of children today could be having a big impact on their academic performance in school.

Surgeon General Richard Carmona stated “Because of the increasing rates of obesity, unhealthy eating habits and physical inactivity, we may see the first generation that will be less healthy and have a shorter life expectancy than their parents" (Physical, 2008). This also happens to be the first generation that is having physical activity taken out of their school day. Children desperately need time to be physically active between the long hours that they are required to sit and focus at school. When students are not given various breaks throughout the day, their attention suffers, their focus decreases, their cognitive abilities decline, their motivation to do well plummets, and their disdain for school grows. Physical Education and recess provide a vital service to the school and the students.

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References

Ardoy, D., Ruiz J., Castillo R., Ortega F., Fernandez-Rodriguez J., and Jimenez-Pavon D. "A physical education trial improves adolescents' cognitive performance and academic achievement: The EDUFIT Study." Scandinavian of Medicine and Science in Sports 24.1 (2014). SportDiscus. Web. 9 Mar. 2015.

"Overweight in Children." Overweight in Children. American Heart Association, 1 Aug. 2014. Web. 9 Mar. 2015.

"Physical Activity and Academic Achievement." CDC. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 Apr. 2008. Web. 6 Mar. 2015. .

Putcher, K., Boot N., Vries N. "School health promotion interventions targeting physical activity and nutrition can improve academic performance in primary‐ and middle school children." Health Education 113.5 (2013): 372-91.

Ramstetter, C., and Murray R., "The Crucial Role of Recess in Schools." Journal of School Health 80.11 (2010): 517-26.

Singh, A. "Physical Activity and Performance at School." JAMA Network. American Medical Association, 1 Jan. 2012. Web. 9 Mar. 2015.

Vail, K. (2006). Is physical fitness raising grades? Education Digest, 71(8), 13.

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