Physical Activity, Fitness, and Executive Functions in Youth: Effects, Moderators, and Mechanisms

Lubans, David R.; Leahy, Angus A.; Mavilidi, Myrto F.; Valkenborghs, Sarah R.

doi:10.1007/7854_2021_271

Cited by 22 publications

(25 citation statements)

References 119 publications

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“…Our findings did not show a direct relationship between PA and executive function, which is not in line with current evidence supporting the view that both acute and chronic PA is effective for improving executive function in children [ 7 ]. However, our data showed an indirect association between PA and executive function via physical fitness, suggesting that PA might indeed affect executive function only to the extent to which it improves physical fitness.…”

Section: Discussioncontrasting

confidence: 90%

“…The results from systematic reviews and meta-analytic syntheses generally highlighted a positive relationship between PA and executive function. For example, Lubans et al [ 7 ] estimated the effects of PA on executive function to be of small to moderate size in children (effect size [ES] = 0.13–0.57), with acute transient effects of single PA bouts appearing to be greater than chronic, longer-lasting, effects of extended PA practice. Moreover, a direct relationship between executive function, and academic achievement has been investigated [ 8 , 9 ].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…The current investigation builds on the previous research/theories wherein PA, executive function, physical fitness, and academic achievement all interact in multiple ways [ 26 , 27 ]. Based on the existing evidence of positive associations between PA and physical fitness [ 17 , 28 ], between physical fitness and executive function [ 7 ], and between executive function and academic achievement [ 8 , 29 ], we hypothesise that significant positive associations between PA and academic achievement may be observed through mediating pathways, but not via a direct path. Our study aims to further our understanding of the relationships between the above factors going beyond piecemeal evidence obtained with pairwise associations or simple mediation models.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Do Physical Fitness and Executive Function Mediate the Relationship between Physical Activity and Academic Achievement? An Examination Using Structural Equation Modelling

et al. 2022

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Background: Physical activity health benefits are widely known. However, the association between physical activity, physical fitness, executive function, and academic performance need further investigation. Additionally, one of the literature gaps reveals scarce and mixed findings on what mediators of physical activity may affect academic achievement. Purpose: This investigation aims to provide knowledge about the mediation role of physical fitness and executive function in the association of physical activity with academic achievement in a cohort of Spanish schoolchildren using a structural equation modelling approach. Methods: The data for this cross-sectional study were collected from a convenience sample of children from Spain (Balearic Islands) aged between 9 and 13 years. Physical activity levels were self-reported with the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children; physical fitness was assessed using the International Fitness Scale; executive function was assessed with the Trail Making Test, and children’s achievements were collected from the school records. Structural equation modelling was used to explore the relationship between physical activity, physical fitness, executive function, and academic achievement. Findings: Statistically significant positive direct associations were observed between physical activity and physical fitness (β = 0.46, 95% CI [0.29, 0.64]), physical fitness and executive function (β = 0.28, 95% CI [0.04, 0.52]), and executive function and academic achievement (β = 0.46, 95% CI [0.28, 0.65]), while adjusting for the confounding effects of sex and body mass index. Furthermore, indirect associations were observed between physical activity and executive function mediated by physical fitness (β = 0.13, bias-corrected 95% CI [0.02, 0.31]) and between physical fitness and academic achievement through executive function (β = 0.13, bias-corrected 95% CI [0.03, 0.32]). Conclusions: This investigation adds to the literature with evidence supporting the idea that regular PA leads to improvements in physical fitness and may support cognitive skills and academic performance in children.

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Section: Discussioncontrasting

confidence: 90%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Do Physical Fitness and Executive Function Mediate the Relationship between Physical Activity and Academic Achievement? An Examination Using Structural Equation Modelling

et al. 2022

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“…Longitudinal studies have shown improved cognitive functioning after aerobic and/or resistance exercise training programs ( 43 ). Notably, improvements in executive functioning associated with increased physical fitness and greater exercise participation have been widely reported in both children and adults ( 44 – 46 ), which is a key area of dysfunction in people with a Fontan circulation ( 2 , 47 ). Greater exercise capacity and physical activity may have a neuroprotective role by promoting cognitive resilience and preventing neurodegenerative decline and dementia ( 42 ).…”

Section: Exercise Cognition and Fontan Physiologymentioning

confidence: 99%

Exercise as therapy for neurodevelopmental and cognitive dysfunction in people with a Fontan circulation: A narrative review

Verrall

Tran²,

Yang³

et al. 2023

Front. Pediatr.

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People with a Fontan circulation are at risk of neurodevelopmental delay and disability, and cognitive dysfunction, that has significant implications for academic and occupational attainment, psychosocial functioning, and overall quality of life. Interventions for improving these outcomes are lacking. This review article discusses current intervention practices and explores the evidence supporting exercise as a potential intervention for improving cognitive functioning in people living with a Fontan circulation. Proposed pathophysiological mechanisms underpinning these associations are discussed in the context of Fontan physiology and avenues for future research are recommended.

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“…Among children, single bouts of physical activity [ 1 ] and regular participation [ 2 ] positively relate to selective academic outcomes, as healthier children are more ready to learn [ 3 ]. Although the specific physical activity characteristics, such as the type and intensity that directly influence academic achievement may be debatable, the health-protective benefits of improved mental and social-emotional health of children justify its inclusion in the school curriculum [ 4 ].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

ACTIVE YOU: Teacher Attributes and Attitudes Predicting Physical Activity Promotion

Centeio

Jung

Castelli

2023

Behavioral Sciences

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Background: Based on the Health Belief Model, this study examined preservice teacher attributes and attitudes toward providing physical activity opportunities for children in school. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was used to collect proof of concept and feasibility data for the ACTIVE YOU intervention as part of teacher education. Conclusions: Examination of a diverse sample of preservice teachers during their fieldwork revealed that those who engage in healthy behaviors and had positive attitudes toward physical activity in schools are more likely to take action and promote physical activity for their students.

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Physical Activity, Fitness, and Executive Functions in Youth: Effects, Moderators, and Mechanisms

Cited by 22 publications

References 119 publications

Do Physical Fitness and Executive Function Mediate the Relationship between Physical Activity and Academic Achievement? An Examination Using Structural Equation Modelling

Do Physical Fitness and Executive Function Mediate the Relationship between Physical Activity and Academic Achievement? An Examination Using Structural Equation Modelling

Exercise as therapy for neurodevelopmental and cognitive dysfunction in people with a Fontan circulation: A narrative review

ACTIVE YOU: Teacher Attributes and Attitudes Predicting Physical Activity Promotion

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