It’s back-to-school time… a time when a structured schedule often returns to the family and when parents tend to re-discover the gym. Adults aren’t the only ones who should focus on making time for exercise. Studies have shown students who exercise often earn higher grades.
Purdue University published data last spring on its college students regarding the relationship between gym visits and grades. Those who frequented the gym had better grades than those who occasionally visited or didn’t attend at all. Students who visited the gym 16 times per month had a GPA of 3.10 or higher. This was slightly above the GPAs of students who moderately attended the gym at least 7 times per month. These students had an average GPA of 3.06.
In a press release, the assistant director for student development and assessment at Purdue’s Division of Recreational Sports explained, “Students who are motivated by fitness and wellness tend to have better time management skills, and research shows that being fit is good for the mind”.
For younger students, many studies have similar findings. A 2010 report by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) examined peer-reviewed studies on the impact of physical activity on academic achievement. The report concluded:
- “Schools should continue to offer or increase opportunities for physical activity. There is evidence that physical activity may help improve academic performance (including grades and standardized test scores) in some situations.”
- “Increasing or maintaining time dedicated to physical education does not adversely impact academic performance.”
Is your child getting at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day? Make time for exercise. It has positive benefits physically, emotionally, and academically!
