The results of the study are published in the journal Pediatrics.

Scientists have long noted that physical activity has a positive effect not only on physical, but also on mental health, and also helps to improve cognitive abilities.

A new study covering 14 previously published papers has confirmed this fact. During the meta-analysis, the scientists took into account the data of 3203 children and adolescents aged five to 14 years. Experts studied the impact of physical activity on various aspects of intelligence, including general IQ, as well as mobile intelligence (the ability to solve new problems) and crystallized intelligence (accumulated knowledge and experience).

The results showed that regardless of the age, initial physical fitness and initial level of intelligence of the participants, regular physical exercise had a positive effect on their cognitive abilities. On average, the IQ of children and adolescents involved in sports increased by four points - about the same as an additional year of study.