Sport Participation and Academic Performance in Children and Adolescents

Background: Participation in sport and physical activity during childhood and adolescence has been widely associated with numerous physical, psychological, and social benefits. Beyond health outcomes, engagement in organized sport may also influence cognitive development, school engagement, and academic achievement. Mechanisms such as improved executive function, enhanced concentration, better time management, and increased self‑discipline have been proposed to explain the potential relationship between sport participation and academic performance. However, the nature and strength of this association remain an important topic of research. Methods: This study was conducted as a narrative review of observational and intervention studies examining the relationship between sport participation and academic performance in children and adolescents. Relevant literature published between ۲۰۰۵ and ۲۰۲۵ was identified through searches of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Eligible studies included school‑aged children and adolescents who participated in organized sport, extracurricular physical activity, or school‑based sports programs. Academic outcomes included grade point average, standardized test scores, classroom behavior, cognitive performance, and school engagement indicators. Results: Evidence from the reviewed literature generally indicates a positive association between sport participation and academic performance. Students who regularly engage in organized sport often demonstrate higher academic achievement, improved concentration, and better classroom behavior compared with less active peers. Participation in sport may also enhance cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and executive functioning. Additionally, structured sport environments may promote social skills, discipline, and motivation, which can contribute to better academic outcomes. However, the strength of these associations may vary depending on factors such as sport intensity, time commitment, socioeconomic context, and academic support. Conclusion: Sport participation appears to be positively associated with academic performance and cognitive development in children and adolescents. Encouraging regular involvement in organized sport and physical activity may support both educational and health-related outcomes in young populations. Future research should further explore causal relationships and identify optimal levels and types of sport participation that best support academic success.

کلیدواژه ها:

Sport Participation ، Academic Performance ، Children ، Adolescents ، Physical Activity ، Cognitive Development