Physical Activity Linked to Improved IQ and Math Scores in Kids

Health Psychology published research on a study of 171 overweight 7 to 11 year olds who participated in increased physical activity. The following results were seen in the children who participated in the vigorous exercise group :

1. Increased brain activity in prefrontal cortex seen on MRI
2. IQ scores increased by 3.8 points with 40 minutes of exercise per day afterschool (smaller increases in children who exercised 20 minutes per day)
3. Improved math scores but not improved reading skills

Reference: Physorg.com Exercise helps overweight children think better, do better in math. Retrieved from the web on 2/10/11 at http://www.physorg.com/news/2011-02-overweight-children-math.html