Evaluation of Educational Attainment among School Children from Vulnerable Communities after Interventions of Effortless Walking Versus Strenuous Sporting Activity

Abstract

Background: This study investigates the impact of effortless walking (aerobic exercise) versus strenuous sporting activity (anaerobic exercise) on educational attainment among elementary school children. The focus is on how different intensities of physical activity affect cognitive functions like memory, concentration, and higher-order thinking skills. Materials and Methods: The research included 50 fourth-grade students. They underwent tests measuring concentration, recall, understanding, application, and analysis of knowledge, first without exercise, then after effortless walking, and finally following strenuous exercise. Results: Effortless walking significantly improved concentration (255% increase), recall (54.3% increase), understanding (42% increase), application (33% increase), and analysis of knowledge (66% increase). In contrast, strenuous exercise often resulted in a decrease in these cognitive functions compared to effortless walking. Conclusion: The study concludes that short periods of non-strenuous exercise like effortless walking before lessons significantly enhance cognitive functions and educational performance in elementary school children, suggesting the integration of aerobic exercise into school routines could be beneficial for academic achievement.