Cognitive Processes and Physical Activity: an Analysis of Academic Performance in Basic Education

Abstract

Physical activity (PA) provides numerous benefits to integral physical and mental health of the individual and there has been a decline in its practice in school-age youth, greatly influenced by the contemporary lifestyle that cultivates sedentary lifestyles. In this sense, this study aimed to review studies of the association of PA with academic performance (AD) of children and adolescents in basic education. The method used was an integrative review and the results were discussed exploring aspects of cognitive neuroscience, in order to allow broad analysis of the theme. In most studies, PA had positive effects on the AD of students, due to improvements in cognitive functions such as attention, concentration, and memory, essential for learning. It is worth mentioning that neuromotor variables of strength, cardiorespiratory, frequency and intensity of PA, gender, among others, should be considered in order to establish valid associations between PA and AD. Exercise increases brain metabolism and stimulates the production of neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors, which favor neuroplasticity, essential in the formation of memory nerve connections. Furthermore, PA acts in a positive way in psychological and behavioral aspects of the students. All these actions have shown the potential of PA to improve the AD of students, especially those who had learning difficulties. Thus, PA presents itself as a valuable strategy in the search for academic success and the knowledge provides subsidies for educational managers to reflect on the educational policies of PA in schools.