At first glance, exercise and IQ (Intelligence Quotient) might seem unrelated. However, numerous studies have shown that physical activity can boost cognitive functions in adolescents, including memory, attention, and executive function. But can exercise improve general intelligence, including IQ? Based on exciting research released last month, let’s explore this question.
On November 9, researchers from the University of Almería in Spain published a study in the international journal Pediatrics, revealing that structured physical activity programs can effectively boost intelligence in teens’ intelligence.
The team analyzed data from 3,203 participants across 14 randomized controlled trials, assessing how exercise impacts overall intelligence.
They categorized intelligence into two main subtypes for analysis. First up: fluid intelligence. This is your ability to think logically, solve new problems, and adapt to unfamiliar situations. It’s crucial for tackling those tricky, never-seen-before challenges.
The second type is crystallized intelligence. Think of this as your mental library – all the knowledge, skills, and experiences you’ve gathered over time. It shows up in your vocabulary, factual knowledge, and other learned abilities. While fluid intelligence peaks in early adulthood, crystallized intelligence keeps improving as you age.
Here’s the exciting part: the study found that exercise programs positively impact intelligence across the board. This effect was consistent for kids with both standard and low IQ levels, regardless of how long they exercised. The biggest boost was in fluid intelligence.
Get this: exercise programs bumped up kids’ and teens’ IQ scores by an average of 4 points. The researchers say that’s like gaining a whole extra year of education!
The research team emphasized, “What’s important is that regular exercise contributes not only to physical health but also to cognitive development, particularly enhancing intelligence.”
Moreover, these brain-boosting benefits didn’t depend on age or how long the exercise program lasted. This suggests that getting active can lift your cognitive skills at any development stage.
Javier Morales, who led the study, was particularly excited about one finding: “It was particularly noteworthy that children with lower baseline intelligence also experienced significant improvements, indicating that exercise can serve as an inclusive and effective intervention for diverse populations.”
“This means that encouraging children and adolescents to participate in structured physical activities can have lasting positive effects on their intellectual capabilities, as well as other areas of their lives, such as happiness, socioeconomic success, and even future health,” he added.
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