Physical fitness is related to concentration performance in adolescents

Abstract

The aim of this study was to test the relationship between physical fitness and attention in a sample of adolescents. The hypothesis was that the overall fitness as well as its single components (speed, endurance, strength, coordination, and flexibility) would be positively related to participants’ performance in a test of attention. Participants were adolescent students (N = 140) aged 15 to 18 years. Physical fitness was measured with the German Motor Test. Attention was assessed with the d2-Test of Attention. Overall, physical fitness explained 26% of the variance in the attentional test performance. Endurance, strength, coordination, and flexibility were all positively linked to participants’ attention, whereas speed was unrelated to attention. Endurance and flexibility better predicted how fast participants processed the test items, while strength and coordination better predicted the accuracy with which the participants detected the targets. Better physical fitness seems to be an advantage for adolescents’ cognitive performance.

The Effect of Physical Activity Levels on Cognitive Performance: Research in Portuguese Adolescents

“…The literature has reported that physical fitness can indeed facilitate brain maturation and CP [ 44 ]. Studies have also shown links between PA and different brain structures, which can lead to hypothesizing that PA may influence cognitive functions [ 44 ].…”

“…The literature has reported that physical fitness can indeed facilitate brain maturation and CP [ 44 ]. Studies have also shown links between PA and different brain structures, which can lead to hypothesizing that PA may influence cognitive functions [ 44 ]. PA has been consistently linked with enhanced CP [ 17 , 45 ]; hence, exercise during this important developmental stage can have an impact on neurological and cognitive outcomes [ 45 ].…”