Welchen Einfluss haben körperliche Aktivität und Fitness im Kindes- und Jugendalter auf Bildungsoutcomes? Eine systematische Übersicht von Längsschnittstudien

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Regular physical activity and high physical fitness levels have positive effects on health and well-being over the entire lifespan. Moreover, their potential impact on educational outcomes has been increasingly discussed. Hence, the aim of this paper is to systematically analyze longitudinal studies dealing with impacts of physical activity and fitness on educational outcomes. Based on a criteria-led database search, a total of 14 publications were identified and their methodological quality was evaluated. The selected studies show a wide variance, with only 2 having high methodological quality whereas 6 studies have medium or low quality. In total 11 out of 14 studies statistically demonstrate that physical activity and fitness in childhood and adolescence, in each case relating to specific parameters, can have a positive effect on educational outcomes, e.g. school test results and grade point average. We identified a number of third variables, with socioeconomic status playing a significant role. In summary, the present review provides evidence-based arguments that the promotion of physical activity and physical fitness can lead to a number of improved educational outcomes and should therefore play an important role in educational contexts, such as schools.

Translated title of the contributionWhat influence do physical activity and fitness in childhood and adolescence have on educational outcome?: A systematic overview of longitudinal studies
Original languageGerman
JournalSportwissenschaft: the German journal of sports science
Volume45
Issue number4
Pages (from-to)190-199
Number of pages10
ISSN0342-2380
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 01.12.2015