Fifteenth International Conference on Sport & Society

Abstract

This research unveils the profound impact of physical education and fitness on the cognitive abilities of higher education students. The study addresses two questions: 1) How does engagement in physical education and fitness influence cognitive functions? 2) What is the correlation between nutrition and cognitive performance among individuals in higher education? The insights garnered from this investigation will play a pivotal role in the development of enhanced fitness and nutritional programs tailored for academic settings, with the ultimate objective of elevating both short-term and long-term achievements. The relevance of this research is underscored by the stagnation of academic fitness programs in Nevada since 2014, coupled with a consistent decline in student academic performance below the national average. Encompassing interdisciplinary perspectives from physical education, kinesiology, nutrition, and psychology, this study utilizes a mixed-methods approach. Participants actively engaged in the study by responding to a comprehensive pre-questionnaire featuring 79 questions (including short-answer and Likert scale responses), tracking five workout sessions, and completing a post-survey questionnaire with 117 items. Preliminary findings indicate that individuals who participated exhibited improved overall focus at the conclusion of their workouts. Acknowledging the limitations of self-reported workout data, the study concludes that incorporating fitness activities throughout the day positively impacts individuals, enhancing their ability to concentrate and retain academic information. The researcher advocates for policy updates in schools and encourages the integration of diverse workout options to optimize students’ physical and cognitive well-being.