International Journal of Multidisciplinary Health Sciences and Research

Category: Original Article,      DOI: Recived: 28/10/2024, Accepted: 25/12/2024, Published online: 30/12/2024

The Impact of Physical Activity on Cognitive Function and Academic Success in School-Aged Students

Arghya Nag1, Rupali Rohtagi 2*

Abstract

Background: Physical activity has emerged as a crucial factor influencing academic performance among school-going students. This study investigated the correlation between physical activity levels and academic performance in secondary school students. Methods: A prospective observational cohort study was conducted over six months, involving 422 students aged 12-16 years from selected schools in Dehradun, Uttrakhand, India. Physical activity levels were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (IPAQ-A) and pedometer measurements, while academic performance was evaluated through standardized academic scores and cognitive function tests. Results: The results revealed that 33.6% of students maintained high physical activity levels, 43.8% moderate levels, and 22.6% low levels. Students with high physical activity levels demonstrated significantly higher mean academic scores (82.4±6.8%) compared to those with moderate (75.6±7.2%) and low (68.2±8.1%) activity levels (p<0.001). Subject-wise analysis showed the strongest correlation in mathematics (83.2±7.1% for high PA) and science (81.8±6.9% for high PA). Cognitive function assessment revealed superior performance across all domains (attention, memory, processing speed, and executive function) among highly active students, with scores ranging from 8.2±1.3 to 8.6±1.1 compared to 6.5±1.4 to 6.9±1.3 in the low activity group. Conclusion: The study concludes that regular physical activity significantly enhances academic performance and cognitive function among school-going students. These findings emphasize the importance of integrating structured physical activity programs within the academic curriculum to promote optimal student development and achievement.