Active Kids Do Better
Studies show that physical activity not only helps kids stay healthy and strong, but it can also lead to: Higher test scores
Improved attendance
Better behavior in class
Lower rates of childhood obesity
A lifetime of healthy habits
How does physical activity affect academic achievement?
Here’s the latest research linking physical activity to academic achievement from the 2014 CDC Health and Academic Achievement Report:
* Students who are physically active tend to have better grades, school attendance, cognitive performance (e.g., memory), and classroom behaviors (e.g., on-task behavior). *Higher physical activity and physical fitness levels are associated with improved cognitive performance (e.g., concentration, memory) among students.
*More participation in physical education class has been associated with better grades, standardized test scores, and classroom behavior (e.g., on-task behavior) among students. *Increased time spent for physical education does not negatively affect students’ academic achievement. Time spent in recess has been shown to positively affect students’ cognitive performance (e.g., attention, concentration) and classroom behaviors (e.g., not misbehaving).
*Brief classroom physical activity breaks (i.e., 5-10 minutes) are associated with improved cognitive performance (e.g., attention, concentration), classroom behavior (e.g., on-task behavior), and educational outcomes (e.g., standardized test scores, reading literacy scores, math fluency scores) among students.
*Participation in extracurricular physical activities such as interscholastic sports has been associated with higher grade point averages (GPAs), lower drop-out rates, and fewer disciplinary problems among students.
How much physical activity do youths need?
Children and adolescents should participate in 60 minutes(1 hour) or more of physical activity daily. Aerobic activities: Most of the 60 or more minutes per day should be either moderate- or vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity. Vigorous-intensity physical activity should be included at least 3 days per week. Muscle-strengthening activities: Include muscle-strengthening physical activity on at least 3 days of the week, as part of the 60 or more minutes. Bone-strengthening activities:Include bone-strengthening physical activity on at least 3 days of the week, as part of the 60 or more minutes. Activities should be age-appropriate, enjoyable, and offer variety.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2008
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