Aerobically-Fit Kids Earn Better Test Scores, Study Finds

Cutting back physical education classes in schools so kids can have more instructional time may not have been such a smart move for school districts across the nation.

Not only does it work against childhood obesity prevention efforts, but it may be counterproductive, according to a study to be published in the Journal of Pediatrics. Researchers have found that aerobically-fit children had more than twice a greater chance of passing math and reading tests than kids who were unfit, according to a news release.

“Schools sacrificing physical education and physical activity time in search of more seat time for math and reading instruction could potentially be pursuing a counterproductive approach,” said Dr. Robert R. Rauner, who conducted the study with colleagues from Lincoln Public Schools and Creighton University in Nebraska. Together, they analyzed scaled scores for math and reading as well as the students’ body mass index, weight and whether they qualified for free or reduced-price lunch – a federal indicator for poverty.

While body mass index is an important indicator for overall health, it did not significantly impact academic success, researchers found. Additionally, the study also determined that “although obesity is a concern for children, this study shows that aerobic fitness can have a greater effect on academic performance than weight,” a news release states.

In fact, the authors say both aerobic fitness and socioeconomic status had a similar effect on academic achievement. But because it’s easier to add aerobic fitness than improve that status, “schools should think twice before taking minutes from physical education and recess.”

Source: Elsevier Health Services, Journal of Pediatrics

+ Help a child in your life become more physically fit. Learn about the Bon Secours Youth Fitness Program.

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