Relationship between executive functions and physical activity in children and adolescents
A systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34019/2237-9444.2025.v15.47023Keywords:
Executive Functions, Physical Activity, Cognitive Development, Children and AdolescentsAbstract
This study analyzed the relationship between executive functions (EFs) and physical activity in children and adolescents. From this, we ask: how is the regular practice of physical activity related to the development and improvement of EFs in this population? The systematic review followed the PRISMA guidelines, using the tools Mendeley and Publish or Perish, and selected articles published between 2014 and 2024 that addressed EFs and physical activity, resulting in three studies for detailed analysis. The results indicate that regular physical exercise has a positive impact on cognitive functions, especially attention and motor coordination. In addition, physical activity promotes academic performance and contributes to mental and physical health, standing out as a crucial factor in cognitive development. It is concluded that the inclusion of physical activity in educational and public health policies is essential to promote the development of EFs and to improve the general well-being of children and adolescents. These findings reinforce the importance of strategies that integrate physical activity into the educational context.
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