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Executive Functions Do Not Mediate Prospective Relations between Indices of Physical Activity and Academic Performance: The Active Smarter Kids (ASK) Study

2017; Frontiers Media; Volume: 8; Linguagem: Inglês

10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01088

1664-1078

Katrine Nyvoll Aadland, Yngvar Ommundsen, Eivind Aadland, Kolbjørn Brønnick, Arne Lervåg, Geir Kåre Resaland, Vegard Fusche Moe,

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Changes in cognitive function induced by physical activity have been proposed as a mechanism for the link between physical activity and academic performance. The aim of this study was to investigate if executive function mediated the prospective relations between indices of physical activity and academic performance in a sample of 10-year-old Norwegian children. The study included 1129 children participating in the Active Smarter Kids (ASK) trial, followed over seven months. Structural equation modeling with a latent variable of executive function (measuring inhibition, working memory and cognitive flexibility) was used in the analyses. Predictors were objectively measured physical activity, time spent sedentary, aerobic fitness and motor skills. Outcomes were performance on national tests of numeracy, reading, and English (as a second language). Generally, indices of physical activity did not predict executive function and academic performance. A modest mediation effect of executive function was observed for the relation between motor skills and academic performance.