A recent study provides evidence that physical activities can enhance the executive functions of young children | Examining 24 experimental studies, found that physical activity interventions longer than twelve weeks yielded the most improvement in executive functions among preschool-aged children.
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From the article: Physical activity, which includes any movement generated by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure, is crucial for children’s development. It has long been associated with physical health benefits, such as increased fitness and reduced obesity. However, researchers have been increasingly interested in its impact on cognitive functions, particularly executive functions. These functions, which include skills such as working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility, are essential for focused attention, problem-solving, and self-regulation.
The researchers [conducted](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mhpa.2024.100592) a meta-analysis, a comprehensive statistical analysis that combines the results of multiple studies to identify overall trends. They systematically reviewed studies from databases such as the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Web of Science, Science Direct, ProQuest, and Springer, focusing on experimental studies with control groups involving children aged 3 to 6 years. The inclusion criteria ensured the studies were robust: they had to be randomized controlled trials, report comprehensive metrics, and be published in English or Chinese.
Out of 8,083 potential studies, 24 met the stringent criteria and were included in the analysis. These studies involved 1,426 participants from China, Indonesia, and the United States, with intervention durations ranging from four to twenty-five weeks. The studies were categorized by the type of physical activity (game-based or non-game-based) and the duration of the intervention (less than 6 weeks, 6-12 weeks, or over 12 weeks).
The researchers found that physical activity had a significant positive effect on the executive functions of young children, with an effect size of 0.711. This indicates a substantial improvement beyond what would be expected by chance alone.
It’s not just children, your brain needs exercise to be biologically healthy, a biologically healthy brain is going to work better and isn’t going to be as susceptable to mental health issue like depression and dementia.
Exercise increases BDNF levvels, improves brain vascular health, improves mitochondrial health, improves brain connectivity, increases brain volume, etc. All of which are linked to mental health.