At a time when school administrators, teachers, and parents want to give students as much of a head start in math, 
science, and technology as possible and expanding academic curricula are competing for attention, it can be very easy to ignore physical education. This is true not just in the United States, but in societies across the globe. It is no surprise, therefore, that research is coming in from all over the world-from the US, South Africa, Spain, Germany, Korea, Australia, and Taiwan on this important topic.
science, and technology as possible and expanding academic curricula are competing for attention, it can be very easy to ignore physical education. This is true not just in the United States, but in societies across the globe. It is no surprise, therefore, that research is coming in from all over the world-from the US, South Africa, Spain, Germany, Korea, Australia, and Taiwan on this important topic.In the past there was a tendency to think that time devoted to nonacademic goals had a negative effect on academic performance. However, a growing body of scientific research is showing a link between physical fitness and improved brain function, cognition, and academic achievement. Physical activity has a direct effect on the brain, with increased oxygenation improving concentration, neuron connectivity and information processing. Indirectly, the lessons learned and benefits gained by exercise and group sports can carry over into the classroom setting. Athletics immerse students in a culture of effort, persistence, and competitiveness. Sports activity also increases self-esteem and socialization which aid in academic performance.
While many researchers want more studies to firmly establish a correlation between these two important goals, they do agree on one thing: Adding time to academic subjects by taking time from physical education programs does not enhance grades in these subjects, and may be detrimental to health. They recommend that neitherphysical or intellectual education be sacrificed at the expense of the other.
