Weight status, physical fitness and their relationship with academic achievement among students in the 5th and 6th years of Elementary School

Many studies have established beneficial effects of physical activity practice on both physical health and mental and social health in children. In this respect, over the last years research showing the positive effects of... [ view full abstract ]

Many studies have established beneficial effects of physical activity practice on both physical health and mental and social health in children. In this respect, over the last years research showing the positive effects of physical activity on cognition and a positive relationship with academic achievement has spread. At the same time, physical condition has been consolidating as an indicator of health among children, but its role beyond physical health requires additional research.

The aim of this study was to establish the associations of weight status and physical fitness with academic achievement among students enrolled in the 5^th and 6^th years of Elementary School from Albacete (Spain).

A cross-sectional design was used to assess physical fitness and weight status of children 10 to 12 year (N = 124) with the High Priority ALPHA health-related fitness test battery and the Body Mass Index (BMI). Average end-of-the-year academic marks in mathematics, physical education, Spanish language and English language served as measurement of academic achievement. The relationships between the variables were determined by Pearson correlation coefficients and analysis of variance by levels of academic achievement.

Results showed a positive correlation between fitness parameters and academic achievement in physical education. In females, better levels of cardiorespiratory capacity and jump were related to better marks in Spanish language and mathematics. Moreover, normal weight children achieved higher marks than their peers with low weight, overweight or obesity status.

In line with previous studies, these results bring to light that cardiovascular endurance and body composition, as health indicators, are associated with cognitive benefits from childhood. The study provides information that can be used by educators, parents and legislators to promote physical activity and physical fitness among children.

Keywords: Physical fitness; cardiovascular fitness; academic achievement, physical education, elementary school.