Let me break down the findings from a recent piece of literature that soon to be Dr. Ben Skutnik sent me. The paper is referenced as the PANIC study. PANIC standing for Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children. This study took place over eight years in Kuopio, Finland, and looked at the impact of childhood physical fitness on both cognitive and mental health outcomes as kids grew into adolescence. 241 adolescents, 129 were boys and 112 of them were girls and the results offer valuable insights about how fitness levels at a young age affect development.

Motor fitness is first discussed as how well a kid move and coordinates their bodies through space. There was a strong link to improved global cognition as they got older. What this tells us is that activities that improve motor skills like running, jumping and playing sports can have a positive effect on cognitive functions like memory, problem-solving, and decision-making. When kids are engaging in physical activities, they’re not just getting physically stronger; their brains wire up to be efficient.

Next, the study examined cardiorespiratory fitness which is how well the heart and lungs work with a direct correlation on mental health. Higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness were associated with lower levels of stress and less depression in adolescence. When cardiorespiratory fitness improved, so did mental health. Consistent improvements in physical fitness can reduce mental health issues in kids.

Next, they examined muscular fitness and the study found a bit of a different story. Tests like the standing long jump and grip strength weren’t directly tied to improved cognition, they did relate to improved reaction time and fine motor skills. Turns out muscular strength might not have the same carry over to thinking as fitness, it’s still contributing to overall mental well-being.

The study also found interesting results on sex differences. For example, improvements in muscular fitness had a bigger impact on mental health for girls than for boys. This leads us to believe that a more detailed, individualized approach to physical and mental health outcomes needs to examine for boys and girls.

One of the biggest takeaways was the long-term impact of physical activity. It’s not just about being active today, but setting kids up for a lifetime of better cognitive function and mental health. By engaging in physical activity from childhood into adolescence, kids are priming the pump with stronger minds and bodies for the life ahead of them.

Promoting a variety of physical activities from a young age is vital. With a lifetime goal to improve cognitive and mental development. Parents and schools need to encourage kids to participate in activities that challenge their minds and bodies. At Power Athlete, this study really aligns with what we have been preaching for years. We’ve always believed that physical fitness isn’t just about getting jacked, it’s about building better humans. This research shows how fitness can enhance life skills, increase mental health, and create better humans.

If you’re ready to build a strong foundation for your young athlete, check out our Bedrock program. Designed specifically to build the foundation of strength, motor skills, and mental toughness, Bedrock sets youth athletes up for long-term success—both in sport and in life.

Share this article