A study of the relationship of physical activity with scholastic performance and body mass index in children 12-18 years of age

Background: Studies on relationship between physical activity and academic performance have yielded variable results while its effect on body mass index (BMI) is clearer. There is a paucity of data on the subject in the Indian subcontinent. 

Objectives: To explore the relationship between physical activity and academic performance in children between 12-18 years by assessing the correlation of physical activity with academic performance and BMI and analysing the association of duration of physical activity with academic performance and BMI.

Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out involving a questionnaire based interview of 400 students in the age group of 12-18 years. The data was then analysed using correlation and unpaired t-test by SPSS software version 14.0.

Results: A moderately good positive correlation was observed for physical activity with academic performance with r = +0.49, whereas a mild negative correlation was observed for physical activity with body mass index with r = −0.31. A sub-group analysis using unpaired  t–test revealed that students indulging in physical activity of more than 1 hour duration had better academic performance and a healthier BMI as compared to students with  physical activity less than or equal to 1 hour duration.

Conclusions: Physical activity exhibits a positive relationship with academic performance and BMI in the adolescent age group.