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Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?

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A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Health Behavior, Chronic Disease and Health Promotion".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 April 2019) | Viewed by 82346

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Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Caterina Pesce

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Guest Editor

Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome "Foro Italico", 00135 Rome, Italy
Interests: exercise and cognition research; and secondarily also motor coordination across the lifespan

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

As you are aware, publications on the relationship between physical activity and cognition has experienced an exponential growth in the last few years. This evidence-base is contributing to policy makers’ awareness of the public health relevance of the physical activity–cognition relationship. After decades of research into the nuances of this relationship, it is time to broaden the focus and bring together aspects that may facilitate transitioning evidence into policy.

This Special Issue of the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, “Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?” offers an opportunity to publish high-quality multi-disciplinary research, review or theoretical note that may further our understanding of the bi-directional relationship between physical activity and cognition. While the bi-directionality is not new, the novel approach that we propose is to bring together contributions on the two sides of the coin that are actually attracting attention from different perspectives. On the one side in Europe, there is renewed attention to multilevel physical activity determinants, also with a focus on the psychological level (e.g., http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0182709). On the other side, international experts in exercise and cognition have highlighted research priorities including the identification of the physical activity characteristics leading to cognitive benefits and the underlying mechanisms (e.g., the outcomes of a Delphi process in press in BJSM).

This Special Issue of the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health provides an optimal venue to bring together contributions on cognitive determinants of physical activity and environmental conditions of physical activity that impact cognition, which represent a still under-investigated aspect of physical activity in relation to cognition.

Thus, we would welcome submissions on cognitive determinants of physical activity and on environmental conditions which, being conducive to quantitative or qualitative enhancement of physical activity, may impact cognition. Cognitive determinants of physical activity, broadly conceived include, but are not limited to cognition, metacognition, self-regulation, cognitive life skills and other socio-cognitive constructs. Environmental conditions conducive to physical activity that impact cognition include, but are not limited to characteristics of the natural, social and built environment, as well as characteristics of the physical and social environment in designed physical activity interventions.

Prof. Caterina Pesce
Guest Editor

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Keywords

physical activity
exercise
cognition
self-regulation
life skills
natural environment
built environment
social environment

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Published Papers (13 papers)

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Research

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19 pages, 1758 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relative Age Effect in the Sport Environment. Role of Physical Fitness and Cognitive Function in Youth Soccer Players

by Florentino Huertas, Rafael Ballester, Honorato José Gines, Abdel Karim Hamidi, Consuelo Moratal and Juan Lupiáñez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(16), 2837; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16162837 - 8 Aug 2019

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 6357

Abstract

The need to achieve short-term competitive outcomes in sports may influence the emergence of talent selection strategies, which could bias individuals’ opportunities. The present study aimed to further explore the relative age effect (RAE), a phenomenon that strongly influences youth sport development. The RAE refers to a disproportionately high percentage in sport teams of athletes born early in the selection year. Our primary focus was to explore whether the RAE is supported by behavioral evidence in favor of better fitness—and especially cognitive-attentional functioning—of early as compared to late-born players. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 105 young athletes (u10, n = 52; 9.8 ± 0.3 years old, and u12, n = 53; 11.8 ± 0.2 years old) attending two youth elite soccer academies. Attentional functioning, anthropometrics, physical fitness, and game intelligence were compared across two Age Groups (u10 vs. u12) and four Birth Quarters (BQ1–BQ4). The RAE was statistically significant (p < 0.001), showing that about 50% of participants were born in the first quarter and 75% were born in the first half of the year. More importantly, U12 players outperformed u10 players in measures that were related to sustained attention (with faster and less variable responses; p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively), and in all anthropometric measures (p < 0.001), physical-fitness capacities (p < 0.05). Crucially, neither the attentional measures, game intelligence, anthropometrics, nor physical fitness were affected by BQ (all ps > 0.1 and BF₁₀ between 0.08 and 0.6, showing strong evidence for the null hypothesis). The present findings suggest that the early selection process that occurs during scouting in youth soccer academies offsets the age-related differences that could be anticipated in cognitive skills, anthropometrics, and physical abilities, due to growth and maturation. These birth asymmetries could lead teams to disregard later maturation athletes and athletes born later in the year inducing a larger dropout of those players with the consequent reduction in the talent pool. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

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16 pages, 1225 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Mediating Role of Self-Concept between Sports-Related Physical Activity and Mathematical Achievement in Fourth Graders

by Laura C. Dapp and Claudia M. Roebers

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(15), 2658; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16152658 - 25 Jul 2019

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4149

Abstract

Being physically active has many benefits for children and adolescents. It is essential for various aspects of physical and mental health, and also positively influences academic performance and school achievement. In addressing the still incomplete understanding of the link between physical activity (PA) and academic achievement, the present study scrutinized the open issues regarding different roles of PA type and PA duration within the relation between self-reported PA and objectively measured mathematical achievement in fourth graders. As to the type of PA, the current study distinguished between structured and unstructured sports activities children perform in their leisure time. Moreover, the current study investigated the indirect effect of PA on mathematical achievement by controlling for the mathematical self-concept as a mediating variable. Results showed PA to be positively related to mathematical outcomes if implemented in a structured setting and pursued for at least two hours per week. As to the mediation, the results revealed a full mediation, indicating PA to improve mathematical self-concept, which, in turn, positively affected mathematical achievement. Thus, engaging in structured PA for two hours or more a week may have additional benefits for children’s and adolescents’ self-concept in a way that is favorable and encouraging for promoting their academic achievement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

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13 pages, 298 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Juggling with Math Lessons: A Randomized Controlled Trial Assessing Effects of Physically Active Learning on Maths Performance and Enjoyment in Primary School Children

by Vera van den Berg, Amika S. Singh, Annet Komen, Chris Hazelebach, Ivo van Hilvoorde and Mai J. M. Chinapaw

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(14), 2452; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16142452 - 10 Jul 2019

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5985

Abstract

There are tentative indications that physical activity (PA) during school time can be beneficial for children’s academic performance. So far, most studies have focused on the effects of moderate-to-vigorous PA, for example, in the form of energizers or extra physical education lessons. Little is known about the effects of physically active learning, in which PA is integrated with the academic content of the lessons, especially in preadolescent children. Moreover, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the enjoyment of physically active learning in this age group. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to assess the effects of integrating juggling with math practice in primary school children, on (1) multiplication memorization performance and (2) enjoyment during the math lessons. We conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial, in which 312 children (mean age 10.4 years) from nine Dutch primary schools participated. Fourteen classes were randomly assigned to either a group that learned juggling whilst practicing multiplication tables (intervention group), or to a group that practiced the same multiplication tables while sedentary (control group). Both interventions had a duration of 5 weeks and consisted of 20 short lessons (4 lessons per week, 5 to 8 min). We used mixed-model analyses to examine the effect of the intervention on multiplication memorization performance. Group (control or intervention) was used as the fixed factor, and class and school as random intercepts. Analyses were adjusted for pretest multiplication performance, age, gender, general motor skill level, physical activity behavior (PAQ-C), and academic math performance. No significant intervention effect on multiplication performance were observed. However, the math-juggling program significantly increased enjoyment of children during the math lessons. We can conclude that the intervention did not improve, but neither deteriorated children’s math performance. The increased enjoyment in the math-juggling group can serve as an important starting point for structurally incorporating physical activities in the classroom setting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

14 pages, 622 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental and Motivational Determinants of Physical Activity among Canadian Inuit in the Arctic

by Victor O. Akande, Robert A.C. Ruiter and Stef P.J. Kremers

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(13), 2437; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16132437 - 9 Jul 2019

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3860

Abstract

Background: Canadian Inuit have transited from a physically active hunter-gatherer subsistence lifestyle into sedentary ways of life. The purpose of the current study was to measure physical activity levels among Nunavut Inuit adults, and explore the socio-cognitive and environmental factors influencing the number of steps taken per day. Method: Inuit and non-Inuit adults (N = 272) in Nunavut participated in a seven-day pedometer study during summer and winter seasons. Participants were asked to complete the Neighbourhood Environmental Walkability Scale (NEWS) and Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ-3). Data analyses included descriptive statistics, hierarchical linear regression, and tests of mediation effects. Results: Participants had limited to low activity at a rate of 5027 ± 1799 and 4186 ± 1446 steps per day, during summer and winter, respectively. There were no seasonal and age effects on the number of steps. Gender effects and community differences were observed. Perceived infrastructure and safety as well as land use mix diversity were found to be positive environmental correlates of steps taken, which were partially mediated by identified motivational regulation. Conclusion: Physical activity levels among Nunavut adults are generally low, but can be promoted by improving the external physical environment and internal motivational regulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

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17 pages, 353 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Correlates of Motor Competence in Children—The Skilled Kids Study

by Donna Niemistö, Taija Finni, Eero A. Haapala, Marja Cantell, Elisa Korhonen and Arja Sääkslahti

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(11), 1989; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16111989 - 4 Jun 2019

Cited by 74 | Viewed by 12381

Abstract

Environment, physical activity (PA) and motor development are tightly interwoven during childhood. We examined the associations of environmental factors with motor competence (MC) in children. Children (N = 945, 50.1% boys, age = 3–7 years, mean = 5.4 years) from 37 childcare centres in the Southern (n = 17), Central (n = 13) and Northern Finland (n = 7) participated. The environmental factors comprised the geographical location (Southern, Central and Northern Finland) and residential density (metropolitan area, city, rural area and countryside) of the childcare centres’ based on postal codes and the national population density registry. MC was measured using the Test of Gross Motor Development (TGMD)-3, as well as by quantifying time spent outdoors and participation in organised sports via parental questionnaire. It was found that children from the countryside had better MC and spent most time outdoors, while children from the metropolitan area most frequently engaged in organised sports. Gender comparisons revealed that girls outperformed boys in locomotor skills, while boys were better in object control skills, had higher TGMD-3 score and spent more time outdoors. Time spent outdoors and participation in organised sports were associated positively with MC, but not in children from the countryside. In conclusion, higher population density was associated with lower MC and less time spent outdoors. The findings suggest that versatile outdoor environments may support motor development through PA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

17 pages, 1132 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Older Adults Cope with Cognitive Complexity and Environmental Constraints during Dual-Task Walking: The Role of Executive Function Involvement

by Roberta Forte, Caterina Pesce, Angela Di Baldassarre, John Shea, Claudia Voelcker-Rehage, Laura Capranica and Giancarlo Condello

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(10), 1835; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16101835 - 23 May 2019

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4056

Abstract

This cross-sectional study investigated the interactive dual-task (DT) effects of executive function demands and environmental constraints on older adults’ walking and the moderating role of habitual physical activity (PA). Locomotor performance under different environmental constraints (flat versus obstructed walking) and cognitive performance with different executive function involvement (backward counting versus random number generation) were assessed under single-task (ST) and DT conditions in 135 participants (mean age 68.1 ± 8.4). The weekly number of daily steps was measured. Reciprocal DT effects of walking on cognitive performance and of the cognitive task on gait performance were computed and submitted to analyses of covariance with age, PA level, and cognitive functioning as covariates, followed by linear regressions with PA level as predictor. Cognitive task demands and environmental constraints individually and jointly affected gait variability (p = 0.033, η_p² = 0.08) and executive function performance (p = 0.009, η_p² = 0.09). Physical activity level predicted a low but significant percentage of variance of DT effects on gait only in flat walking (R² = 0.04, p = 0.027). Results suggest that older individuals may adopt variable task prioritization in dual tasking depending on the type of executive function involvement and the environmental constraints on walking. Their DT ability was slightly affected by habitual PA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

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8 pages, 289 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Education Pedagogies Built upon Theories of Movement Learning: How Can Environmental Constraints Be Manipulated to Improve Children’s Executive Function and Self-Regulation Skills?

by James R. Rudd, Laura O’Callaghan and Jacqueline Williams

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(9), 1630; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16091630 - 10 May 2019

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 9157

Abstract

Physical education in schools has been marginalised across the globe, and as a result, children are missing out on opportunities to develop and acquire the foundation skills needed to lead a physically active life. The squeeze on physical education in schools, particularly in some western countries (United Kingdom, Australia and America), has been justified on the grounds that core subjects such as English and mathematics need more curriculum time, as this will lead to higher cognitive and academic performance. The aim of this paper is to highlight how physical education lessons in early childhood, underpinned by either of two major theories of motor learning, can support teachers in the creation of learning environments, as well as guide their pedagogical practice to facilitate children’s development of key cognitive skills, in particular executive function and self-regulation skills. These skills are crucial for learning and development and have been found to be a higher predictor of academic achievement than IQ. They also enable positive behaviour and allow us to make healthy choices for ourselves and others, therefore providing further evidence that the development of movement skills has the potential to secure positive attitudes and outcomes towards physical activity across the lifespan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

20 pages, 2406 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations of Class-Time Sitting, Stepping and Sit-to-Stand Transitions with Cognitive Functions and Brain Activity in Children

by Emiliano Mazzoli, Wei-Peng Teo, Jo Salmon, Caterina Pesce, Jason He, Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan and Lisa M. Barnett

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(9), 1482; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16091482 - 26 Apr 2019

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5990

Abstract

Previous research showed that children’s physical activity is positively related to executive functions, whilst screen time shows negative associations. However, it is unclear how school-based sitting time and transitions from sitting to standing relate to cognition. We investigated the relationship between class time sitting/stepping/sit-to-stand transitions and cognitive functions in Grade 1–2 children. Overall, 149 children (7.7 ± 0.6 years old, 54% boys) participated. Measures included class time sitting/stepping/sit-to-stand transitions and: (i) response inhibition (i.e., response time and accuracy); (ii) lapses of attention; (iii) working memory; and (iv) brain activity (cortical haemodynamic response). Linear mixed-models, adjusting for age, sex, and clustering at the classroom level, found that more sitting time was associated with higher lapses of attention (β = 0.12, p < 0.05). Children who stepped more had quicker inhibition response time (β = −0.95, p < 0.01); however, they were less accurate in their responses (β = −0.30, p < 0.05) and this was also observed with sit-to-stand transitions (β = −0.26, p < 0.05). No associations were found with brain activity. In conclusion, reducing and breaking up sitting may help keep children focused, but the evidence regarding response inhibition is unclear. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

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14 pages, 806 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beyond Broadway: Analysis of Qualitative Characteristics of and Individual Responses to Creatively Able, a Music and Movement Intervention for Children with Autism

by Kimberley D. Lakes, Ross Neville, Spyridoula Vazou, Sabrina E. B. Schuck, Katherine Stavropoulos, Kavita Krishnan, Irene Gonzalez, Kayla Guzman, Arya Tavakoulnia, Annamarie Stehli and Andrew Palermo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(8), 1377; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16081377 - 17 Apr 2019

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7365

Abstract

Movement in response to music represents one of the natural social environments in which physical activity occurs. The study of music and movement, including dance, requires a careful, holistic consideration of many features, which may include music, physical activity, motor learning, social engagement, emotion, and creativity. The overarching goal of this manuscript is to examine qualitative characteristics of and individual responses to a music and movement intervention (Creatively Able) for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We provide a description of Creatively Able, illustrating how the program design and physical and social environment were informed by children’s needs and preferences in order to provide an enriched environment in which to promote multiple systems in children with ASD. Using data from two pilot studies with 20 children with ASD, we illustrate how researchers can use observational research methods to measure important aspects of the social environment (e.g., children’s engagement during intervention sessions) as well as engagement of potential underlying behavioral mechanisms (e.g., self-regulation) that might reduce clinical symptoms. We further illustrate how individual responses to intervention (e.g., improvements in behaviors or symptoms) can be studied in physically active interventions. Our pilot study results showed group-level reductions in Stereotyped and Compulsive behaviors of 8% and 4%, respectively; posthoc analysis revealed that there were substantial individual differences in children’s responses to the intervention. This research illustrates robust methods that can be applied to intervention research to improve our understanding of important features of interventions that might help promote development in various domains, including executive functions and self-regulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

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12 pages, 322 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cognitive and Sensory Dimensions of Older People’s Preferences of Outdoor Spaces for Walking: A Survey Study in Ireland

by Marica Cassarino, Eleanor Bantry-White and Annalisa Setti

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(8), 1340; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16081340 - 14 Apr 2019

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4287

Abstract

Background: Physical exercise, particularly walking, benefits healthy ageing. Understanding the environmental circumstances in which exercise occurs is crucial to the promotion of physical activity in older age. Most studies have focused on the structural dimensions of environments that may foster walking; however, individual differences in how older people perceive and interact with outdoor spaces need further attention. This study explored the cognitive and sensory dimensions of preferences of outdoor spaces for walking. Methods: We invited 112 healthy community-dwelling people aged ≥60 years to complete a survey to test associations between walking preferences and cognitive/sensory vulnerability. A subsample also completed focus groups/walk along interviews to explore qualitatively the cognitive/sensory reasons for outdoor walking preferences. Results: While most participants indicated a preference for outdoor spaces that offer variety and greenery, we observed a complex association between individual cognitive/sensory needs (stimulation seeking vs. avoidance), preferences for social interactions, and the place of residence urbanity level. Furthermore, walking preferences varied based on the purpose of the walk (recreation vs. transportation). Conclusions: Our findings support an ecological approach to understanding determinants of physical activity in older age, which consider the interaction between individual cognitive processing and the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

11 pages, 867 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Severe Hypoxia Does Not Offset the Benefits of Exercise on Cognitive Function in Sedentary Young Women

by On-Kei Lei, Zhaowei Kong, Paul D. Loprinzi, Qingde Shi, Shengyan Sun, Liye Zou, Yang Hu and Jinlei Nie

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(6), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16061003 - 20 Mar 2019

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4189

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the effect of acute moderate-intensity continuous exercise performed under normobaric severe hypoxia on cognition, compared to sea-level normoxia. Methods: Thirty healthy inactive women randomly performed two experimental trials separated by at least three days but at approximately the same time of day. Executive functions were measured during the follicular stage via an interference control task before (rest) and during exercise with 45% peak power output under normobaric normoxia (PIO₂ = 150 mmHg, FIO₂ = 0.21), and (2) hypoxia (PIO₂ = 87 mmHg, FIO₂ = 0.12, simulated at an altitude of 4000 m). Reaction time (RT), accuracy rate (AC), heart rate, ratings of perceived exertion, and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO₂) were collected before and during exercise. Results: RT (p < 0.05, η²_p = 0.203) decreased during moderate exercise when compared at rest, while a short bout of severe hypoxia improved RT (p < 0.05, η²_p = 0.134). Exercise and hypoxia had no effects on AC (p > 0.05). No significant associations were found between the changes of RT and SpO₂ under the conditions of normoxia and hypoxia (p > 0.05). Conclusions: At the same phase of the menstrual cycle, a short bout of severe hypoxia simulated at 4000 m altitude caused no impairment at rest. RT during moderate exercise ameliorated in normoxia and severe hypoxia, suggesting that both exercise and short-term severe hypoxia have benefits on cognitive function in sedentary young women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

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Review

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20 pages, 832 KiB

Open AccessReview

Creating an Internal Environment of Cognitive and Psycho-Emotional Well-Being through an External Movement-Based Environment: An Overview of Quadrato Motor Training

by Antonio De Fano, Rotem Leshem and Tal Dotan Ben-Soussan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(12), 2160; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16122160 - 18 Jun 2019

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6692

Abstract

In this overview, we discuss the internal and external environmental factors associated with cognitive and psycho-emotional well-being in the context of physical activity and Mindful Movement. Our key argument is that improved cognitive and emotional functions associated with mental well-being can be achieved by an external, Mindful Movement-based environment training called Quadrato Motor Training (QMT). QMT is a structured sensorimotor training program aimed at improving coordination, attention, and emotional well-being through behavioral, electrophysiological, neuroanatomical, and molecular changes. In accordance with this argument, we first describe the general neurobiological mechanisms underpinning emotional states and emotion regulation. Next, we review the relationships between QMT, positive emotional state, and increased emotion regulation, and discuss the neurobiological mechanisms underlying these relationships. We consider the relationships between motion, emotion, and cognition, and highlight the need for integrated training paradigms involving these three trajectories. Such training paradigms provide cognitively engaging exercises to improve emotion regulation, which in turn affects adaptive behaviors. Finally, we address the broader implications of improving cognitive and emotional functioning through Mindful Movement training for environmental research and public health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

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22 pages, 1638 KiB

Open AccessReview

Active Commuting to and from School, Cognitive Performance, and Academic Achievement in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

by Abel Ruiz-Hermosa, Celia Álvarez-Bueno, Iván Cavero-Redondo, Vicente Martínez-Vizcaíno, Andrés Redondo-Tébar and Mairena Sánchez-López

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(10), 1839; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16101839 - 23 May 2019

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 7058

Abstract

Background: Physical activity has a beneficial effect on the brain’s development process and cognitive function. However, no review to date has evaluated the effects of active commuting to and from school (ACS) on cognitive performance and academic achievement. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the link between ACS and cognitive performance and academic achievement in children and adolescents. Methods: We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases for all observational studies published until May 2019 that examined the association between ACS and cognitive performance or academic achievement. Studies were classified into two groups according to their measured outcomes: cognitive performance (nonexecutive cognitive functions, core executive functions, and metacognition) and academic achievement (marks of different areas). A pooled effect size (ES) was estimated using the DerSimonian and Laird random-effects method for cognitive performance and each area of academic achievement. Results: Twelve studies that evaluated the relationship between ACS and cognitive performance or academic achievement were included in the systematic review: four studies analyzed both cognitive performance and academic achievement, one study provided data regarding cognitive performance and seven provided data on academic achievement. Finally, nine of 12 studies provided enough data for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Our findings suggest that ACS was not significantly associated with cognitive performance (ES = −0.02; 95% CI: −0.06 to 0.03) or academic achievement (ES = −0.33; 95% CI: −0.83 to 0.17 for mathematics-related skills; ES = −0.37; 95% CI: −0.88 to 0.15 for language-related skills). Conclusions: There was insufficient evidence regarding the relationship between ACS and cognitive performance and academic achievement. Future studies should include potential confounders in their analyses and consider the use of standardized self-reports or objective measures of ACS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition: Determinant of Physical Activity, or Outcome of Environments Conducive to Physical Activity?)

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