Influence of physical activity participation on academic performance of secondary school students

Thesis Abstract

Physical activity is any bodily movement produced by voluntary body muscles that require energy expenditure. Physical activity has traditionally been considered in physical education as an essential part of curricula in promoting a range of benefits including general health, cognitive, development, motor skills and social behaviour (Pate, Neill and Mclver,2011). The philosophy “Healthy Body, Healthy Mind” was the motive behind the inclusion of physical education along with the curriculum subjects. Physical education is the systematic education of physical activity to develop a man physically, mentally, emotionally and socially competent through an active medium.

Physical education can help the students to develop the knowledge, attitudes, motor and behaviour skills, and confidence needed to adopt and maintain physically active lifestyle (World Health Organization,2013). The outcomes of a quality physical activity program are very important to adolescents. Bodily benefits of sports activities, like improved aerobic power, increased muscle strength, and fighting obesity have been demonstrated clearly.