Regular physical activity has benefits that go well beyond maintaining weight and physical health. A meta-analysis of 14 previous studies found that children who play sports, participate in physical education, or walk or bike to school do better in their studies.
The researchers analyzed 4 randomized studies in which some students were given extra time in physical education and then had their tests scores compared to students who did not get the extra activity. Students who moved more did better in spelling, reading and math. Schools that cut back on phys ed to save money may not be doing their students any favors.
[Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, January 2012]
The People's Perspective on Medicine