Article
The purpose of the research is to summarize the findings from studies by foreign authors on the influence of physical activity on cognitive abilities related to executive functions and the academic performance of primary school children, and to analyze the structure of this relationship.
Methods and organization of the research. A review of 21 foreign scientific publications published between 2010 and 2024 was conducted.
Research results and their discussion. Analysis of the scientific literature confirms a positive, albeit moderate, influence of physical activity on both executive functions and academic performance. This influence is primarily attributed to neurobiological, psychosocial, and behavioral factors. It is show that the optimal strategy for developing executive functions is a combined approach that includes reducing sedentary behavior, increasing the overall volume of physical activity, and implementing structured physical education programs. The need for further research to establish causal relationships, determine optimal types, intensity, and duration of physical activity, as well as to identify sensitive periods of development, is emphasized.
Conclusion. The article presents a theoretical analysis of contemporary foreign research concerning the relationship between physical activity, cognitive development (through the lens of executive functions), and the academic performance of primary school children.
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