For many university students, exercising is nonexistent in their daily lives except for the 5-10 minute walks to their lecture rooms. However, many studies indicate there is a positive correlation between academic performance and physical activities.
A study done by researchers at Saginaw Valley State University in Michigan concluded that out of 266 undergraduate students they observed, those who regularly participated in any form of physical activities obtained higher G.P.A’s compared to those who did not. To make sure physical activities did in fact influence the students’ academic success, the researchers considered a wide range of factors including gender, study time, study area, and the students’ majors. After considering the control variables, the researchers were able to come to a common consensus that students involved in vigorous physical activities had on average, 0.4 higher G.P.A’s.
Could it be that high academic achievers are simply more likely to be higher achievers in other areas of interest such as physical activities as well? While this may be true, recent studies support that physical activities help stimulate the brain. Neuroscientist, Jeff Lipman from Harvard University points out although there isn’t a known biological mechanism of how exercise might stimulate new brain cells, any form of physical activities increase blood flow to the brain thus delivering essential amounts of oxygen and nutrients. In addition, Dr. John Ratey, a psychiatrist and professor from Harvard University describes exercise as “food for the brain”. Dr. Ratey has extensively written beneficial effects of physical activities. Through his research on animal studies, exercise stimulates development of new brain cells in hippocampus, a major component of the brain.
While most students feel exercising cannot fit into their busy school schedule, there are many different ways to find motivation to do so, according to College Parents of America. Most universities offer free or highly subsidized fee for access to campus facilities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and racquetball courts. After university, students will most likely pay much more for similar facilities. In addition, most students are not aware of the fact that they are paying annually for these facilities in their tuition fee whether they use it or not. It should be reminded that exercising does not always involve the gym. There are many different types of intramural sports offered on most campuses such as basketball, soccer, and baseball. Finally, physical activities should be long term therefore, finding something enjoyable and can be maintained is essential in having a positive attitude towards exercising.
Sometimes, it is easy to get lost in the hectic life of working and studying. However, it is necessary to take the time to take care of your body. Exercising will not only help students stay fit but it is highly likely to help them achieve academic success as well.
Here is a youtube clip on how exercising lead to better grades username MrStudyTV:
Video used: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxGDXFGMaFo
-Ryan Song
