The overall better test results of athletes compared to non-athletes can be explained with the activation of certain brain areas and better executive functioning because it is based on the amount of physical activity of the child (Davis et al., 2011). Strong executive functioning abilities results in making plans, handling and organizing tasks, while being flexible of switching flip-flopping between activities (Best & Miller, 2010 in Fredericks, 2012). It is hypothesized that this skill helps the students to balance the involvement in many different activities more effectually. Davis et al. (2011) proved in their study with 171 overweight children that the amount of exercise even has an impact in the mathematical test performance. Over a period
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Researchers found out about the possibility to selectively train executive functioning when older adults improved their executive functioning ability through aerobic exercises (Colcombe et al., 2004 in Davis et al., 2011). The selectiveness also explains the inconsistency of the cognition test results in children during an exercise study (Sibley & Etnier, 2003 in Davis et al., 2011). The better the executive functioning is developed during childhood, the better the child is able to regulate his or her behavior, which impacts not only but also the performance in school such as inhibiting inappropriate responses or the delay of gratification (Davis et al., 2011). If students engage in sport in general, their executive functioning capabilities will be challenged and adapt over time to the new …show more content…
Like in many areas, a good dose of extracurricular activities is important to not negatively impact the favored overall adjustments due to overscheduling. Studies suggest that either way athletes show better academic performance, however other studies showed that student-athletes are underdeveloped in academic skills and less prepared for their future career compared to non-athletes (Blann, 1985; Purdy et al., 1982 in Ryska & Vestal,
Researchers found out about the possibility to selectively train executive functioning when older adults improved their executive functioning ability through aerobic exercises (Colcombe et al., 2004 in Davis et al., 2011). The selectiveness also explains the inconsistency of the cognition test results in children during an exercise study (Sibley & Etnier, 2003 in Davis et al., 2011). The better the executive functioning is developed during childhood, the better the child is able to regulate his or her behavior, which impacts not only but also the performance in school such as inhibiting inappropriate responses or the delay of gratification (Davis et al., 2011). If students engage in sport in general, their executive functioning capabilities will be challenged and adapt over time to the new …show more content…
Like in many areas, a good dose of extracurricular activities is important to not negatively impact the favored overall adjustments due to overscheduling. Studies suggest that either way athletes show better academic performance, however other studies showed that student-athletes are underdeveloped in academic skills and less prepared for their future career compared to non-athletes (Blann, 1985; Purdy et al., 1982 in Ryska & Vestal,