The influence of physical activity on learning interest and academic achievement of elementary school children: A literature review

This literature review examines how physical activity affects learning interest and academic achievement in elementary school children. Research shows that physical activity improves cognitive development, motivation, executive functions, emotional regulation, and classroom engagement. Regular exercise supports both physical health and mental alertness, leading to better academic results. The review concludes that schools should integrate structured physical activity into their programs for better student development and educational outcomes.

Key points

• Physical activity has positive effects on cognitive development and motivation
• Exercise enhances executive functions and emotional regulation
• Regular physical activity improves classroom engagement and academic performance
• Physical exercise supports mental alertness and improved focus
• Integrating structured physical activity into school programs supports holistic student development

Limitations

This is a literature review that synthesizes existing studies rather than conducting original research, so it cannot provide specific evidence about which types of physical activity programs work best or for which populations. The document does not specify which countries' contexts were examined or provide details about study quality or sample sizes from the reviewed literature.