Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Motor Coordination, and Academic Achievement in School Students (11-13 years)

Abstract

Objective. This study aimed to investigate the association between motor coordination (MC), cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), and academic achievement (AA) among school students aged 11 to 13 in the West Bank/Palestine. Methods. A total of 252 students were assessed through tests measuring gross and fine motor coordination (Flamingo balance, plate tapping, and other tests). The CRF was evaluated by the 3-minute step test, while AA was measured using grade point average (GPA) and subject-specific grades. Results. A significant correlation was recorded between MC, CRF, and AA (P =.00), rs range (0.436-0.718); Students who engaged in physical activity demonstrated better MC, CRF, and AA compared to their inactive counterparts (P =.00, Cohen’s d ranged between 0.53 and 1.35). Conclusion. Enhanced MC and CRF significantly impacted AA, with effect sizes ranging from moderate to large. Promoting physical activity interventions is vital to improve MC and CRF which could positively improve academic achievement among school students.