Effects of a Complex Physical Activity Program on Children's Arithmetic Problem Solving and Arithmetic Reasoning...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Exercise Science
• Educational Psychology
• Cognitive Neuroscience

Background:

• Physical activity is linked to improved cognitive function in children.
• The specific impact of physical activity interventions on mathematics achievement requires further investigation.
• Complex physical activity (CPA) programs integrate cognitive engagement, offering a potential avenue for academic enhancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week complex physical activity (CPA) intervention on the mathematics performance of third-grade middle school students.
• To assess improvements in arithmetic problem-solving and reasoning abilities following the CPA program.
• To examine the concurrent effects of the CPA intervention on children's physical fitness.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 128 children (aged 12–13) allocated to either a CPA intervention group or a waitlist control group.
• The CPA group engaged in activities with cognitive components, while the control group received a basic activity program.
• Mathematics performance was assessed using the AC-MT 11-14 test, and physical fitness was measured via standardized motor tests (e.g., 20 m shuttle run, push-ups).

Main Results:

• The CPA intervention group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in mathematics comprehension, production, arithmetic reasoning, and problem-solving (p < 0.001).
• Substantial effect sizes (d) were observed for all mathematical outcomes, ranging from 1.32 to 2.50.
• Significant enhancements in physical fitness were also noted in the intervention group, including improvements in the 20 m shuttle run, push-ups, curl-ups, and sit and reach tests.

Conclusions:

• A 12-week complex physical activity (CPA) intervention program effectively enhances mathematical performance in third-grade middle school students.
• CPA interventions show promise as a strategy to improve academic achievement and potentially mitigate academic failure.
• Integrating cognitively engaging physical activity may offer a dual benefit for children's physical fitness and academic success.