We know that exercise improves human memory and cognitive abilities. However, a new study has revealed for the first time that physical activity not only increases children's intelligence but also their academic performance. This important research was published by the University of Granada in Spain. Research has shown that children who are physically fit have larger frontal, temporal and calcareous cortices of the brain. These areas of the brain are responsible for performing all executive functions. Moreover, these parts play an important role in enhancing learning, developing motor skills, and improving visual perception. Motor skills refer to abilities that enhance coordination of the brain, nervous system, and muscles.
Objectives of the research
The aim of the research was to understand how the cognitive abilities of physically fit and active children differ from those of less active children and how this affects their academic performance. "The answer to this question is short and powerful: yes, physical fitness and agility are directly related to important parts of the brain in children," says lead researcher Francisco B. Ortega of the University of Granada's Sports and Health Institute. Which is reflected. their academic performance."
The research is part of the "Active Brains Project" and was published in the journal NeuroImage. It involved clinical trials on more than 100 children aged 8 to 11 years who were overweight or obese. Research has shown that motor skills play an important role in the development of two parts of the brain that are associated with language learning and reading fluency. However, research has found no evidence to link muscle strength and cognitive abilities.
Importance of physical fitness
Irene Esteban Carneiro, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Granada and lead author of the study, says there is clear evidence that physical fitness and agility enhance cognitive abilities in children's outer (cortical) and inner (subcortical) brain regions. . Dr. Carneiro emphasized another important point: "Physical fitness is a trait that can be improved through exercise. Incorporating aerobic capacity and motor skill building exercises with physical activity not only accelerates children's mental abilities. can be improved, but their academic performance can also be improved."
The problem of obesity
The number of overweight and obese children is increasing worldwide. There were 32 million such children in 1990, which increased to 41 million by 2016. The problem of childhood obesity is more acute in developing countries than in developing countries, where the increase is rapid. According to experts, this is because rising incomes in developing countries are changing family lifestyles and eating habits. The University of Granada researchers urge policy makers and educators to implement the findings of this research in their educational institutions and make physical education an integral part of the curriculum.
The role of parents
The research also highlights that parents play a more important role than educational institutions in improving children's physical fitness, as many habits are ingrained in children before they enter school. Parents influence the environment that encourages physical activity in their children. Some parents, fearing injury, push their children constantly.
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