Connection between education and exercise examined

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Is there a link between physical fitness and academics? A team of physicians and scientists is conducting a ground breaking study using Hamilton students to find out.

While this kind of study has been done before, but this one will likely yield different and better results, because it uses a wider age range that includes both elementary and high school students.

A new study has Hamilton students moving and shaking.

As Dr. Brian Timmons, associate professor at McMaster University explains, “There is some research demonstrating kids that are more fit have better cognitive function.”

Over one thousand students are being tested to find out if exercise affects literacy. The research is based on the fitness regime known as the 20-20 challenge. It’s called that because it’s 20 minutes of exercise every day at school for 20 weeks. It includes cardio, flexibility and strength training.

Children’s level of physical fitness is tested before they start. The researchers measure their strength, height, weight and endurance. Then when the challenge ends in June, the same kids are tested again and their results are compared to students that didn’t work out.

Sue Verelli, principal of St Patrick Catholic Elementary School says her kids have been involved in the program since January. “It’s fun, children are enjoying it, staff is enjoying it and it’s a win-win for everybody.”

Teachers like Katie Marino are seeing major improvements. “I think that they’re able to control better, so little bit more self-control – they’re able to release that extra energy.”

The final test results will be available in September.

Elementary school children typically get gym class twice a week for about 40 minutes.

Researchers are hoping that if the tests confirm what they already anticipate — that fitness is a benefit to academic performance — these results will help encourage more physical activity during school hours.