The influence of physical activity on school-age children’s cognitive function and academic performance: a review of the literature

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to investigate the latest scientific evidences that demonstrate the positive relationship between physical activity and cognitive function. In the present work, the Authors present a brief survey of studies on the effects of aerobic training, providing an overview of potential neurobiological mechanisms derived from them. Although the emerging scientific research underscores the negative connection between low levels of physical activity and cognitive function in children, School has been increasingly underestimating the importance of providing the recommended levels of physical activity during the school day. In most European countries, the general tendency is to attribute to physical activity a lower value than the other curriculum subjects. Therefore, considering the recent findings that support the hypothesis that physical exercise and physical activity have a positive effect on the structural growth of the brain and its neurocognitive functional development, the school physical education represents a favorable opportunity to promote an active lifestyle among the children and awareness of the importance of motor activities.