Final answer:
The CDC found that exercise improves academic achievement and test scores. It enhances cognitive functions such as memory retention and information processing, which are crucial for learning.
Step-by-step explanation:
The CDC found that exercise improves c. Academic achievement and test scores. Regular physical activity has numerous benefits for students beyond just increasing fitness levels. Exercise has been proven to contribute to improved cognitive function, which translates to better academic achievement and higher test scores. Moreover, consistent exercise can lead to many other health benefits.
In terms of cognitive benefits, engaging in physical activity increases blood flow and oxygen availability to the brain, as well as growth factors that encourage the formation of new brain cells and new neuronal pathways. It also boosts levels of neurotransmitters, like serotonin, which are critical for memory retention, information processing, and overall cognition. These enhancements in brain function are directly connected to a student's ability to learn and perform well academically.
The additional mental health benefits of exercise include a reduction in stress, improvements in body image, and boosts in positive self-esteem. By adopting a routine that includes aerobic exercises like cycling and running, or anaerobic exercises like weight training, students not only promote their physical health but also fortify their mental well-being.
Physical activity is not only beneficial for the mind and body in the short term, but it also leads to a decrease in the risk for chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and certain types of cancer. These long-term health benefits highlight the importance of integrating physical exercise into a student's daily routine.