Physical Activity, Sports Practice, and Cognitive Functioning: The Current Research Status

This review examines how physical activity, sports, and exercise improve cognitive functioning across various populations. It highlights that consistent physical activity enhances brain plasticity, memory, attention, and executive functions. Among children and adolescents, regular aerobic fitness improves brain structure and cognitive speed. In the elderly, exercise mitigates cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s. Mechanisms like neurogenesis and increased BDNF are discussed, though further studies are required to confirm exact pathways. The paper emphasizes tailored exercise programs to optimize cognitive health for different age groups and conditions.

Engaging in regular aerobic and resistance exercises can improve cognitive functions like memory, attention, and decision-making. Activities should be age-appropriate: children benefit from structured play, while elderly individuals gain from moderate aerobic exercises like walking or dancing. Tailor frequency and intensity to individual capacity. While benefits are well-supported, ongoing research will refine these recommendations further.