Physical Activity for Cognitive and Mental Health in Youth: A Systematic Review of Mechanisms

Objectively measured physical activity and mental health among asylum seekers residing in a camp

Physical activity has been linked to better mental health in the general population but also migrants and displaced populations. Studies on the latter populations have been almost exclusively based on self-reported physical activity, thus providing a limited perspective. The purpose of this study was to explore the associations between objectively measured physical activity and mental health indices, in asylum seekers residing in a camp. Participants were asked to wear the accelerometers for a period of seven days, after which they were administered questionnaires assessing depression, anxiety, and well-being in their spoken language. Out of a total of 116 participants, 79 (49 women) accomplished the criteria for valid accelerometer wear days and wear hours and completed the questionnaires. The results showed that participants accumulated adequate, according to the recommendations of the World Health Organization, levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, reported mild to moderate anxiety and depression symptoms, and were marginally above the threshold of poor well-being. Physical activity and sedentary time predicted depression (adjusted R2 = .11) and anxiety (adjusted R2 = .08) symptoms, and levels of well-being (adjusted R2 = .15). In particular, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was linked to lower depression and anxiety, and better well-being, while sedentary time was linked with poorer well-being. The findings provide valuable evidence regarding the links between physical activity and mental health in displaced populations and highlight the need for a multimethod examination of physical activity in such populations.

The Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Association Between 24-Hour Movement Behavior Compositions With Body Mass Index, Waist Circumference, and Internalizing and Externalizing Symptoms in 6-Year-Old Children

BACKGROUND

Few studies have examined the association between 24-hour movement behaviors and health in children in their first 2 years of primary school. This study aimed to examine how 24-hour movement behavior compositions at age 6 were related to body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and internalizing and externalizing symptoms at ages 6 and 10.

METHODS

A subsample of 361 children from the HealthNuts cohort study with valid accelerometer data was included in the cross-sectional analysis. Of these, 279 had longitudinal data for social-emotional outcomes and 113 had longitudinal anthropometric data. Children's 24-hour movement behaviors (ie, sleep, sedentary time, light-intensity physical activity, and moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity [MVPA]) were assessed over 8 days using accelerometery and activity logs. BMI z score and waist circumference were assessed using standardized protocols, and parents reported on their child's internalizing and externalizing behaviors. Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations were estimated using compositional data analysis and compositional isotemporal substitution analysis.

RESULTS

Overall, 24-hour movement behaviors were significantly related to internalizing symptoms cross-sectionally and longitudinally and BMI z-score cross-sectionally. Results from compositional isotemporal substitution models indicated that replacing sedentary time or light-intensity physical activity with MVPA was associated with fewer internalizing symptoms at ages 6 and 10. Replacing time spent sedentary and in light-intensity physical activity or MVPA with sleep was associated with lower BMI z score at age 6.

CONCLUSION

Spending more time in MVPA relative to other movement behaviors is associated with fewer internalizing symptoms. In additional, spending more time sleeping is associated with lower BMI z score and waist circumference in children.

A grounded theory exploration of programme theory within Waves of Wellness surf therapy intervention

OBJECTIVE

Poor mental health represents a large proportion of disease burden faced by young Australians, which has been further exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic and the reluctance of this population to seek support. Surf therapy is a novel form of intervention targeting mental health. The objective of this study was to interrogate programme theory within surf therapy, as delivered by the Waves of Wellness Foundation (WOW) in Australia.

METHODS AND MEASURES

The study utilised grounded theory to understand or develop theoretical mediators for WOW surf therapy based on interviews exploring the experiences of previous intervention participants (n = 16; mean age = 18.4 years, SD = 2.8, range 14-24). Data were analysed through constant comparative analysis.

RESULTS

Five categories emerged from participant data as foundational to WOW programme theory: (a) Safe Space, (b) Social Support, (c) Sensory Grounding, (d) Mastery and (e) Respite. These categories have novel theoretical and practical implications for both surf therapy and wider clinical practice, especially around concepts such as delivering 'mental health by stealth' and fostering longer term 'mental health maintenance' for participants.

CONCLUSION

The study developed an initial WOW programme theory, highlighting the importance of foundational therapeutic structures beyond simply going surfing.

Longitudinal relationships across sleep, physical activity, and mental wellbeing in early-to-mid-adolescence: a developmental cascades investigation

PURPOSE

Sleep (SL), physical activity (PA), and wellbeing (WB) are three factors linked to positive development in adolescence. Despite theoretical support and some empirical evidence of developmental associations between these factors, few studies have rigorously investigated reciprocal associations over time separating between-person and within-person effects, and none have investigated all three in concert. Thus, it remains unclear how the interplay between SL, PA and WB unfolds across time within individuals. This study examines this question in the crucial early-to-mid-adolescence developmental transition.

METHOD

Separating between- and within-person effects, a random-intercept cross-lagged panel model was fitted to a dataset of N = 27,949 adolescents (age 12/13 at first timepoint) from Greater Manchester, England, using a three-by-three design (three annual timepoints: T1, T2, T3; three variables: SL, PA, WB).

RESULTS

Analyses revealed gender-specific developmental cascade pathways. Specifically, we found positive reciprocal associations between SL and WB for girls (at T1→T2), whereas for boys, SL positively predicted WB (at both T1→T2 and T2→Τ3) but WB did not predict SL. We also found that WB predicted PA for boys (at T2→T3) but this finding was sensitive to model specification and yielded a smaller effect than other cross-lagged pathways.

CONCLUSION

Our results highlight the importance of sleep as a driver of adolescent wellbeing, and the role of gender in developmental cascade processes. Study strengths, limitations, and implications are discussed.

Impact of Exercise on Tramadol-Conditioned Place Preference

BACKGROUND

Tramadol (TRA) is an opioid that is used to manage moderate to severe pain. Long-term use of TRA can lead to the development of opioid use disorder.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigates the role of forced exercise in reducing TRA-seeking behavior.

METHODS

Adult male rats (240-260 g) were divided into five groups; the control group received vehicle injections, the TRA group received TRA (75 mg/kg, i.p) every other day for 8 days, and three TRA-exercise groups were forced to run on a treadmill (60 min/day, 5 days/week) for 2, 4, or 6 weeks prior to conditioning with TRA. A tramadol-conditioned place preference (CPP) procedure assessed TRA reinforcement, after which all rats were euthanized, tissue extracted, and mRNA expression for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) and interleukin 1 beta (Il-1β) determined in hippocampus (Hipp), prefrontal cortex (PFC), and nucleus accumbens (NAc).

RESULTS

TRA-seeking behavior was seen in the TRA group and the 6 weeks forced exercise group. By contrast, forced exercise for 2 or 4 weeks attenuated TRA-seeking behavior. This attenuation was associated with a significant increase in Bdnf mRNA expression in the Hipp and NAc, but not the PFC. Additionally, the TRA-induced elevations in Il-1β mRNA expression were reversed by all durations of exercise in Hipp. However, only 2 and 4 weeks, but not 6 weeks, of exercise reduced elevations in PFC and NAc Il-1β expression.

CONCLUSION

Forced exercise for 2 and 4 weeks attenuates TRA-seeking behavior partially through the regulation of Bdnf and Il-1β mRNA expression.

Design, Content and Ecological Validity and Reliability of the Physical Activity and Sport Habits Questionnaire for Children Aged 8-12 Years in the Province of Gipuzkoa (Spain)

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to develop a questionnaire to describe and diagnose the physical activity and sport (PAS) habits of 8-12-year-old schoolchildren, assessing its content, ecological validity and reliability, from a multidimensional perspective aligned with Global Matrix 4.0 indicators. Methods: The questionnaire design phase involved seven individuals from the university sector and sport managers from the Gipuzkoa Provincial Council. Seventeen experts later evaluated the questionnaire's content and ecological validity. For reliability testing, 276 schoolchildren aged 8 to 12 completed the questionnaire twice, with a time interval of two weeks to two months. Statistical analyses included the Wilcoxon test to compare expert ratings, effect size and percentage change calculations for magnitude assessment, and McNemar, McN-Bowker or Wilcoxon tests to compare differences between initial and repeat responses. Cohen's Kappa was used to assess agreement. Results: The initial battery of items, submitted to the validation process, comprised 31 items across 10 dimensions, derived from validated questionnaires and published works. Following content and ecological validity evaluations, modifications were made and nine items were removed due to improved wording, clarification of concepts, redundancy or lack of relevance. Expert quantitative analyses indicated improved overall questionnaire values. Reliability analysis revealed significant differences in five of the twenty-two items, though substantial agreement (from slight to almost perfect) was observed in twenty items. Conclusions: The study confirmed the questionnaire's validity and reliability as a suitable tool for assessing PAS practices among 8-12-year-old schoolchildren in Gipuzkoa, Spain, in both Basque and Spanish languages.

Association between physical activity and mental health problems among children and adolescents: A moderated mediation model of emotion regulation and gender

BACKGROUND

Studies suggests a correlation between physical activity and mental health, particularly in children and adolescents. However, the specific mechanisms underlying this relationship is not fully understood. This study was designed to investigate the potential mediating role of emotion regulation and the moderating influence of gender through a moderated mediation model.

METHODS

A sample size of 4763 students (mean age = 11.12 ± 1.48 years, 52.8 % females) from seven schools in Shenzhen, China, was recruited during the period of October to November 2023. The participants were administered self-reported questionnaires assessing physical activity, mental health, and emotion regulation. The moderated mediation model was analyzed. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 25.0.

RESULTS

The results indicate a negative correlation between physical activity and mental health problems (all p < 0.001). This association was partially mediated by both cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression (all p < 0.001). Additionally, gender significant moderated the path between physical activity and emotion regulation, specifically cognitive reappraisal (p < 0.001) and expressive suppression (p < 0.01).

LIMITATIONS

As a result of the cross-sectional design, no causal relationship could be established, and measurement bias should be noted.

CONCLUSION

Physical activity is found to have a positive effect on the mental health problem of children and adolescents with emotion regulation serve as a partial mediator in the relationship. Additionally, in the mediation model, gender influences the first half of the path.

Comparative effectiveness of physical activity interventions on cognitive functions in children and adolescents with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Physical activity (PA) interventions have been shown to yield positive effects on cognitive functions. However, it is unclear which type of PA intervention is the most effective in children and adolescents with Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDDs). This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of different types of PA interventions on cognitive functions in children and adolescents with NDDs, with additional analyses examining intervention effects across specific NDD types including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

METHODS

In this systematic review and network meta-analysis, seven databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, APA PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus) for randomized controlled trials from database inception to September 2023 were searched. Randomized controlled trials comparing the effectiveness of PA intervention with any non-pharmacological treatment or control group on cognitive functions in children and adolescents diagnosed with NDDs aged 5-17 years were included. Frequentist network meta-analyses were performed based on standardized mean differences (SMD) using random effects models to examine post-intervention differences in cognitive functions, including attention, memory, and executive functions. Intervention dropout was assessed as a measure of treatment acceptability.

RESULTS

Thirty-one randomized controlled trials (n = 1,403, mean age 10.0 ± 1.9 years) with 66 arms were included in the network. Mind-body exercise (MBE; SMD = 1.91 for attention; 0.92 for executive functions), exergaming (SMD = 1.58 for attention; 0.97 for memory; 0.94 for executive functions), and multi-component physical activity (MPA; SMD = 0.79 for executive functions) were associated with moderate to substantial cognitive improvements compared with usual care, whereas the effectiveness of aerobic exercise (AE) was non-significant. Exergaming (SMD = 0.78, 95%CI 0.12 to 1.45) and MPA (SMD = 0.64, 95%CI 0.11 to 1.18) were more effective than AE for executive functions. When analyzing specific NDD types, exergaming lost its superiority over usual care for attention and memory in ADHD, nor for executive functions in ASD. Instead, MPA demonstrated significant benefits across these domains and populations. The certainty of evidence for these comparisons was very low to low. No significant differences in acceptability were observed among MBE, exergaming, and MPA.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings in this study suggest that MBE, exergaming, and MPA were effective interventions for improving domain-specific cognitive functions in children and adolescents with NDDs. AE demonstrated non-significant effectiveness for all outcomes. MBE emerges as particularly advantageous for attention. MPA yielded consistent improvements in memory and executive functions across NDD types. Further high-quality randomized controlled trials of direct comparisons are needed to confirm and expand on the findings from this NMA.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42023409606.

Implementation Outcomes and Recommendations of Two Physical Activity Interventions: Results from the Danish ACTIVE SCHOOL Feasibility Study

Physical activity (PA) should be an essential part of all children's lives, as it can promote physical and mental health, enhance general well-being, and positively impact learning outcomes. Schools offer an ideal setting to encourage physical activity during the school day, as nearly all children attend school. However, schools present a complex environment for implementing PA, and sedentary behavior is common in classroom teaching. This study explores the feasibility of two types of school-based physical activity interventions: one based on research in exercise and cognition (Run, Jump & Fun) and another grounded in embodied learning (Move & Learn). Run, Jump & Fun can be conceptualized as extra non-curricular physical activity implemented into the school day while Move & Learn is integrated into curricular time. The 8-week study involved third-grade students and their teachers from seven schools, with educational strategies applied to support adoption. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected before, during, and after the 8-week period. The results indicated that both interventions were feasible to implement, leading to a series of recommendations for further refinement. These recommendations can guide the development of future school-based PA interventions and inspire other researchers to assess and improve their implementation strategies.

Physical activity intensity and older adolescents' stress: The 'STress-Reactivity after Exercise in Senior Secondary EDucation' (STRESSED) 3-arm randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

Late adolescence (15-19 years) is a period of heightened susceptibility to stress, but regular physical activity may attenuate reactivity to stressors. We aimed to explore the effects of physical activity intensity on older adolescents' stress-reactivity and self-reported mental health.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Three-arm randomised controlled trial in New South Wales, Australia (April-June 2021). Thirty-seven older adolescents (16.1 ± 0.2 years, 59.5 % female) were randomised to: i) non-active control (CON), ii) light-intensity physical activity (LPA), or iii) moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA). Physical activity groups participated in 2 x 20-min sessions/week for 6 weeks. Salivary cortisol (sCort) reactivity to induced stress was assessed using the Trier Social Stress Test for Groups and quantified as area under the curve (sCortAUC; Primary outcome). Secondary outcomes included peak cortisol (sCortPeak), subjective-reactivity, perceived stress, and non-specific psychological distress. Group differences were assessed using multiple linear regression and quantified using Cohen's d.

RESULTS

No statistically significant effects were observed for sCortAUC or sCortPeak and the pattern of effects for subjective-reactivity was inconsistent. Effects for self-reported mental health were also non-significant (p > .05 for all) but of meaningful magnitude, favouring LPA and MVPA over CON (d's = -0.38 to -0.54). Delivery fidelity was high, satisfaction was moderate-to-high, and there was no evidence of harm. However, recruitment, retention for sCort measures, and adherence were lower than expected.

CONCLUSION

Suboptimal recruitment, retention, and adherence limited our ability to conclude on the effect of physical activity intensity on older adolescents' sCort-reactivity to induced stress. We observed potentially meaningful effects on self-reported mental health for both physical activity conditions, which could be confirmed in a future powered trial.

The effects of high-intensity interval training on cognitive performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Cognitive decline is an important feature of an aging population. Despite the large body of research investigating the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on cognitive performance, reports of its effectiveness are inconsistent and it is difficult to determine what factors moderate these effects. The purpose of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis of existing randomised controlled trials investigating the effects of HIIT on various domains of cognitive performance, and to further examine the intervention cycle and age-related moderating effects. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across a range of databases, including PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, and EBSCO. The meta-analysis included data from 20 RCT studies. The results of the analyses demonstrated that HIIT significantly enhanced information processing (SMD = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.15-0.52, P = 0.0005), executive function (SMD = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.26 - 0.50, P < 0.00001), and memory (SMD = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.07-0.35, P = 0.004). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that HIIT enhanced information processing in individuals aged 60 and above, improved executive functioning in individuals of all ages, and enhanced memory in individuals aged 30 to 60. Acute HIIT improved executive function, less than 8 weeks of HIIT improved executive function and memory, and more than 8 weeks of HIIT improved information processing, executive function and memory. The findings of this study indicate that HIIT has a beneficial effect on cognitive performance. Chronic HIIT represents a potential non-pharmacological intervention for cognitive health. Further high-quality research is required to validate and extend these findings.

Differential Associations Between Device-Assessed and Parent-Reported Physical Activity With Indicators of Mental Health in Children and Youth With Disabilities

PURPOSE

We examined associations between device-assessed and parent-reported physical activity with mental health indicators among children and youth with disabilities.

METHOD

Physical activity and mental health data were collected from a larger national surveillance study of physical activity in children and youth with disabilities in Canada. A total of 122 children and youth with disabilities (mean age = 10 y; 80% boys, 57% with developmental disability) wore a Fitbit for 28 days to measure their daily steps. Parents reported the frequency and duration of their child's leisure-time physical activity during the previous 7 days. Parents also completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (ie, total difficulties score, internalizing problems, externalizing problems, and prosocial behavior) as a measure of mental health symptoms.

RESULTS

Significant relationships were observed between parent-reported physical activity and total difficulties as well as internalizing problems but not externalizing problems. Nonsignificant relationships were observed between median daily step counts and mental health indicators.

CONCLUSION

Differential relationships between physical activity and mental health indicators may exist among children and youth with disabilities depending on how physical activity is operationalized (ie, steps vs active minutes) and measured (ie, proxy report vs device assessed). Interventionists seeking to improve mental health outcomes among children and youth with disabilities through physical activity promotion should consider these findings when deciding upon methods to assess physical activity behaviors.

Short-Term Restriction of Physical and Social Activities Effects on Brain Structure and Connectivity

BACKGROUND

Prolonged confinement in enclosed environments has raised concerns about its effects on both physical and mental health. Although increased rates of depression or anxiety during COVID-19 lockdowns have been reported, the effects of short-term restrictions on social activities and physical on brain function and structure remain poorly known.

METHODS

This study explored longitudinal changes in brain gray matter volume (GMV) and functional connectivity (FC) immediately after and four months following a short-term lockdown in comparison to pre-lockdown conditions. MRI data were collected from 20 participants before the lockdown, from 29 participants (14 original, 15 new) two months post-lockdown, and from 27 out of the 29 participants four months post-lifting of the lockdown.

RESULTS

Results showed significant GMV reductions in the right gyrus rectus and cuneus post-lockdown, with further reductions observed four months after lifting the restrictions, affecting additional brain regions. Longitudinal FC trajectories revealed decreased connectivity between the default mode network (DMN) and sensorimotor/attention networks post-lockdown, and recovery after four months post-lifting of the lockdown.

CONCLUSIONS

The observed plasticity in brain FC indicates substantial recovery potential with the potential long-term effect of structural changes. Our findings offer insights into the effects of isolation on the human brain, potentially informing rehabilitation mechanisms and interventions for individuals in similar conditions.

Enhancing Adolescent Physical Fitness and Well-Being: A School-Based High-Intensity Interval Training Program

Background: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of a school-based high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program on quality of life and physical fitness in adolescents. Methods: The study included 60 male adolescents (16.2 ± 0.6 years), randomly assigned to one of two groups: the HIIT group (n = 30) and the control group (CG, n = 30). Participants completed the KIDSCREEN-27 questionnaire to evaluate quality of life and physical fitness tests, including vertical jump, repetitive strength, agility, and flexibility. The experimental program consisted of a 12-week intervention integrated into the warm-up phase of regular physical education (PE) classes. Each PE class lasted 45 min, with the HIIT regimen occupying 10 min of the warm-up phase. The HIIT sessions followed a Tabata-style structure, performed twice weekly. A two-way ANOVA with repeated measures assessed group and time interaction effects. Results: The results revealed changes in physical well-being following the HIIT intervention (p = 0.01) compared to the control group (p = 0.42). The results of the two-way ANOVA with repeated measures revealed interaction effects between group and time for the various fitness tests, countermovement jump (p = 0.04), 4 × 10 m agility test (p = 0.02), medicine ball throw test (p = 0.04), and sit-ups (30 s) (p = 0.01). Conclusions: This study highlights the effectiveness of school-based HIIT in significantly enhancing physical well-being and physical fitness among adolescents.

Effect of goal-directed perceptual-motor exercise on children with specific learning difficulties: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Although perceptual interventions focus on sensory and cognitive skills, they significantly enhance the effectiveness of motor interventions by improving coordination, decision-making, and overall engagement in physical activities. A comprehensive literature review has demonstrated that incorporating perceptual interventions into motor exercises is beneficial. While there are several treatment strategies for SLD-diagnosed children, the potential role of goal-directed perceptual-motor exercises has not been studied. This study examined the effectiveness of goal-directed perceptual-motor training on attention, motor skills, and quality of life in children with Specific Learning Disorder (SLD).

METHODS

This was a randomized clinical study with 38 children diagnosed with SLD between September 2021 and April 2022. The control group (n = 19) received a standard intervention protocol, and the intervention group (n = 19) additionally received a perceptual-motor training program. Bourdon Attention Test, the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test 2-Short Form (BOT2- SF), and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PEDSQL) were used as outcome measures.

RESULTS

The intervention significantly improved attention, fine and gross motor skills, and life quality as evidenced by the within- and between-group comparisons at the end of therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Goal-directed perceptual-motor physical training with cognitive aspects may enhance academic performance, social participation, and life quality for children with SLD by improving basic motor skills. Therefore, the inclusion of physical and task-specific perceptual-motor exercises in educational programs may offer several avenues for cognitive skill development in SLD children.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The protocol is retrospectively registered with http://clinicaltrials.gov/ (16/August/2023, Clinical Trial, NCT05998083).

Influence of Gender, Parental Control, Academic Performance and Physical Activity Level on the Characteristics of Video Game Use and Associated Psychosocial Problems in Adolescents

Previous research has determined the relevance of video games for adolescents; however, it has not been possible to establish differences in usage patterns and certain psychological variables according to gender, parental control, academic performance, physical activity level or game type, nor the relationship between these variables. For this reason, the aims of this research were as follows: (a) to determine the differences in the gaming variables and the psychological variables related to video games according to gender, the closest environment, the academic performance and the level of physical activity; and (b) to determine which gaming variables and behavioral variables influence psychological variables in adolescents. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out involving 2567 adolescents (mean age: 15.06 ± 2.81 years). Participants completed eight questionnaires on the study variables. The results showed that males play more video games than females; play different types of games and on different platforms; and have more psychological problems than females. Having separated parents and having a greater parental control over video game use is associated with more time spent playing video games. Poorer academic performance is related to playing shooters and open-world games, as well as with a more negative emotional response. However, playing shooters and sport and racing games is related to more physical activity. Playing online games, mainly with strangers, is related to higher addictive and problematic uses. In addition, the times of use during the week and on weekends, especially on weekends, stand out as predictors of most psychological variables related to video games in adolescents. This study provides further scientific evidence on the role of certain behavioral and game-related variables in the relationship between video games and well-being. In addition, it highlights the importance of analyzing in the future those video game players who do not have a problematic or addictive use of video games, but who play frequently without any associated problem. From a practical perspective, the promotion of video games with social and cooperative components, or those that promote physical activity, could be related to social and psychological benefits.

Physical Activity Inequalities in Adolescents From Areas of Different Socioeconomic Status

BACKGROUND

Understanding socioeconomic and gender inequalities in physical inactivity during adolescence is a relevant public health issue to promote health in adult life. The aim of this qualitative study is to identify the factors that determine physical activity inequalities in adolescents.

METHODS

We selected 2 educational centers in each of the 3 socioeconomic status areas-low, middle, and high-in the city of Madrid. We conducted a total of 18 semistructured interviews and 12 focus groups involving students, parents, teachers, and school principals. We followed the interpretative/constructivist paradigm within a case study design and grounded theory for the data analysis with the usage of ATLAS.ti 23 software.

RESULTS

Results included 4 main themes: (1) access to off-school structured physical activities; (2) physical activity restrictions due to socioeconomic status; (3) unacknowledged privilege in upper socioeconomic status adolescents; and (4) gender physical activity inequalities.

CONCLUSION

Improving the health of adolescents and future adults through increased physical activity requires equity and gender perspectives.

An Evaluation of the Sharing Dance Public School Program on Physical Literacy

Introduction: Physical literacy (PL) is a multidimensional concept that includes the domains of movement competence, positive affect, social participation, and the confidence, motivation, and knowledge and understanding necessary for regular engagement in physical activity. The Sharing Dance Public School Program was created by Canada's National Ballet School specifically designed to promote PL through dance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the program to improve PL in grade 4 to 6 children over the course of a school year. Methods: Children were initially recruited from two schools including an intervention and a control school. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, data collection was prematurely terminated which resulted in baseline and mid-point data from the intervention group only. As such, participants included 57 children (n = 28 females, Mage = 10.34 ± 0.85 years) that engaged in the dance program once per week for 50 minutes. Assessments of PL included a direct measure of movement competence (PLAYfun) and a self-report measure (survey) to assess the other domains of PL. Results: Significant improvements were found in movement competence. However, significant decreases were found for fun and enjoyment, confidence, and social participation. No changes were observed for knowledge and understanding or overall PL. Conclusions: Findings from the present study are encouraging as they provide initial evidence for the support of community-based PL programs, such as the Sharing Dance Public School Program, to help children develop their movement competence. Future research is needed to further evaluate the effectiveness of the Sharing Dance Public School Program over a school year, and when compared to a control group, as was initially intended.

Physical activity interventions for the promotion of mental health outcomes in at-risk children and adolescents: a systematic review

Many young people are exposed to risk factors that increase their risk of mental illness. Physical activity provision is an increasingly popular approach to protect against mental illness in the face of these risk factors. We examined the effectiveness of physical activity interventions for the promotion of mental health outcomes in at-risk children and adolescents. We searched health databases for randomised and non-randomised intervention studies, with no date restriction, and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tools. We present a narrative synthesis of our results accompanied with a summary of available effect sizes. Thirty-seven reports on 36 studies were included, with multi-sport or yoga interventions the most popular intervention approaches (a combined 50% of included studies). Outcomes measured included internalising, self-evaluative, wellbeing, overall symptomatology, resilience, externalising, and trauma outcomes. We found that 63% of between-groups effects favoured the intervention arm, and 83% of within-groups effects favoured an intervention effect. While recognising high risk of bias, our findings provide evidence in support of the effectiveness of physical activity interventions for promoting mental health outcomes in at-risk young people. We encourage further work designed to better understand the intervention characteristics that may lead to positive benefits.

Direct and indirect effects of physiological, psychological and cognitive variables on academic achievement in children

BACKGROUND

Associations between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), screen time, psychological well-being, executive functions, and academic achievement have been reported, however, few studies have analysed models considering the effect of all these variables on academic achievement. This study aims to analyse the direct and indirect associations of mothers' education level, CRF, screen time, psychological well-being, executive functions, with academic achievement in schoolchildren, by sex.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional analysis of MOVI-daFit! study including 519 schoolchildren (49.52% girls) aged 9-11 years old. Executive functions were assessed with the NIH Toolbox, CRF with the 20-m shuttle run test, academic achievement through the final academic grades in language and mathematics and mother's education level, screen time and well-being by questionnaires.

RESULTS

Structural equation modelling revealed that in boys cognitive flexibility had a significant direct effect on academic achievement and screen time a total significant effect on academic achievement. In girls, CRF was associated with inhibition and psychological well-being, and this was associated with academic achievement.

CONCLUSIONS

Physiological, psychological, and behavioural variables act together to impact academic achievement, and that differences by sex might exist. Thus, strategies to enhance academic achievement in schoolchildren should consider psychological well-being, CRF, screen time, and sex differences.

IMPACT

Physiological, psychological, and behavioural variables, such as cardiorespiratory fitness, screen time, psychological well-being, and cognition all together have an impact on academic achievement, with differences by sex. Previous studies have demonstrated the separate effect of these variables, however, to date, this is the first study that analyses all together in the same model their impact on academic achievement, by sex. This study shows that in boys cognitive flexibility and screen time impact academic achievement. In girls, cardiorespiratory fitness is highly associated with psychological well-being, and this, in turn, was associated with academic achievement.

Physical activity and non-suicidal self-injurious behavior in Chinese adolescents: the chain mediating role of psychological capital and relative deprivation

Introduction

Physical activity has been shown to alleviate negative emotions. We examined whether physical activity is associated with lower non-suicidal self-injurious behavior in adolescents and the mediating and chain-mediating roles of psychological capital and relative deprivation in this association.

Methods

451 secondary school students (44.57% girls; ages 13-19) completed the Physical Activity Rating Scale, Adolescent Non-Suicidal Self-Injurious Behavior Scale, Psychological Capital Scale, and Adolescent Relative Deprivation Scale in their classrooms. In addition, this study used SPSS 26.0 for statistical data analysis and the SPSS macro program PROCESS 4.1 to explore the mediation role.

Results

Regression-based analyses showed that higher psychological capital and lower relative deprivation individually and sequentially mediated the association between physical activity and lower NSSI.

Conclusion

These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how and why physical activity affects adolescents' non-suicidal self-injurious behaviors. At the same time, the result may provide new insights into prevention and intervention efforts for non-suicidal self-injurious behaviors in adolescents.

Are there sensitive periods for physical activity to influence the development of executive function in children?

Executive functions emerge throughout childhood and shape multiple cognitive and behavioral outcomes across the lifespan. Given the importance of these functions, there is considerable interest in understanding the role of environmental enrichment to support their development. The past 20 years have seen the emergence of a body of evidence around the beneficial effects of engaging in physical activity for executive functioning in children. Despite this, there are still unanswered questions, particularly about the confounding effects of the timing and dose of exercise-based interventions. During development, sensitive periods with heightened neural plasticity and sensitivity to environmental influences can offer an optimal time to introduce enrichment interventions. As such, sensitive periods for executive function could indicate an ideal time to introduce physical activity or be a potential confounder to study results if not considered. This narrative review discusses the potential presence of sensitive periods in preadolescent development where physical activity has greater benefits for executive function. Initially, we briefly review the largely parallel fields investigating the presence of sensitive periods for executive function and the effects of physical activity on executive function outcomes. We then bring together these 2 concepts to discuss the theoretical basis for developmentally sensitive periods during which children may be particularly amenable to physical activity-based interventions and offer potential ways forward to investigate this phenomenon. We hope this review will attract researchers to collaborate in the area and extend our current understanding of the development of executive functions as well as interventions like physical activity.

Physical activity and mental health: a systematic review and best-evidence synthesis of mediation and moderation studies

BACKGROUND

While evidence consistently demonstrates that physical activity is beneficial to mental health, it remains relatively unknown how physical activity benefits mental health, and which factors influence the effect of physical activity on mental health. This understanding could vastly increase our capacity to design, recommend, and prescribe physical activity in more optimal ways. The purpose of this study was to systematically review and synthesise evidence of all mediators and moderators of the relationship between physical activity and mental health.

METHODS

Systematic searches of four databases (i.e., Scopus, PsycINFO, PubMed, and SPORTDiscus) identified 11,633 initial studies. Empirical studies that quantitatively assessed physical activity, or conducted a physical activity intervention, measured a mental health outcome, and tested one or more mediator or moderator of the relationship between physical activity and mental health were included. A total of 247 met the inclusion criteria; 173 studies examined mediation and 82 examined moderation.

RESULTS

Results of the best-evidence synthesis revealed strong evidence for 12 mediators including affect, mental health and wellbeing, self-esteem, self-efficacy, physical self-worth, body image satisfaction, resilience, social support, social connection, physical health, pain, and fatigue. Moderate evidence was identified for a further 15 mediators and eight moderators.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings should inform the design of future physical activity interventions to ensure optimal effects on mental health related outcomes. Additionally, if health professionals were to take these mediators and moderators into consideration when prescribing or recommending physical activity, physical activity would likely have a greater impact on population mental health.

Effects of a 12-Week Physical Activity Intervention on Psychological Symptoms in Adolescents

Participation in regular physical activity (PA) is associated with numerous health benefits, including improvement in adolescents' mental health. The current study aimed to assess the effects of a 12-week physical activity intervention on psychological symptoms of adolescents. The sample of this controlled randomized study was composed by 150 adolescents aged 12 to 15 years old. PA intervention is an adaptation of the ActTeens Program, which includes structured PA sessions delivered during Physical Education classes. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was used to measure psychological symptoms. To analyze the effects of the intervention on psychological symptoms, generalized estimating equations (GEEs) models were constructed. After 12 weeks, there were no significant intervention effects for emotional problems (mean difference: -0.14; 95% IC: -1.1-0.82), conduct problems (mean difference: 0.14; 95% IC: -0.6-0.8), attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (mean difference: -0.66; 95% IC: -1.4-0.1), peer problems (mean difference: 0.2; 95% IC: -0.6-1.0), prosocial behavior (mean difference: 0.00; 95% IC: -0.8; 0.8) and overall mental health score (mean difference: 0.15; 95% IC: -2.0; 2.3). No improvement in psychological symptoms was observed after 12 weeks of PA intervention. Future studies should explore how PA in different dimensions and contexts may impact positively on adolescents' mental health.

Getting up for brain health: Association of sedentary behavior breaks with cognition and mental health in children

Children spend most of their waking hours sedentary and reducing this behavior has been challenging. Interrupting prolonged episodes of sedentary behavior with active breaks can provide mental and cognitive health benefits. Considering the multifactorial nature of these health aspects, this study aimed to verify the role of body mass index (BMI), cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in the relationship between the break in sedentary time with cognitive and mental health in children. This is a cross-sectional study with 129 children (62 boys), aged between 6 and 11 years (mean 8.73 ± 1.53) from a public school in southern Brazil. For the assessment of fluid intelligence, psychologists applied Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices test. Mental health was measured using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Sedentary breaks were measured using accelerometers, and CRF was determined using the 6-min walk test. Generalized linear regression analyses were used to verify associations of sedentary breaks with fluid intelligence and mental health, according to children's BMI, CRF, and MVPA. All models were adjusted for sex, age, somatic maturation, and total time of accelerometer use. Our results indicated that sedentary breaks were associated with fluid intelligence in overweight/obese (β = 0.108; p = 0.021) and physically inactive children (β = 0.083; p = 0.010). Regarding mental health, no association was identified with sedentary breaks. In conclusion, sedentary breaks should be encouraged for the benefits of fluid intelligence, especially in children who do not meet physical activity recommendations and are overweight.

Mediators of the association between physical activity and executive functions in primary school children

There is growing interest in identifying the mechanisms underpinning the effects of physical activity on executive functions (e.g. inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility) in children. Our study examined cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, and motor competence as potential mediators of this relationship. The study used baseline data from the Learning to Lead (L2L) cluster randomised controlled trial. In total, 675 children (7-11 years, 49.5% girls) completed measures of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, motor competence, and executive functions. Structural equation modelling was used to examine the potential mediating roles of cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, and motor competence in the cross-sectional association between MVPA and executive functions. Cardiorespiratory fitness (β = 0.06, SE = 0.021, p = 0.004) partially mediated the association between MVPA and cognitive flexibility. Muscular fitness was a significant mediator of the association between MVPA and both inhibitory control (β = 0.03, SE = 0.014, p = 0.027) and cognitive flexibility (β = 0.06, SE = 0.021, p = 0.005). No significant mediated effects were found for motor competence. Our findings suggest cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness (but not motor competence) mediate the association between physical activity and executive functions in children.

Are Physical Activity Interventions Effective in Improving Health-Related Quality of Life in Children and Adolescents? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

CONTEXT

Physical activity (PA) interventions improve well-being and positive mental health in children and adolescents, but the results of previous systematic reviews included participants with chronic medical conditions and did not accurately assess the multidimensional nature of health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this meta-analysis were to (1) evaluate the effects of PA interventions on several domains of HRQoL in healthy <18-year-olds and (2) examine the effectiveness of interventions on HRQoL according to whether they were successful in increasing PA, the type of intervention delivered, and the duration of the intervention.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed (Medline), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, SCIELO, SPORTDiscus, and PEDro databases were systematically searched from inception to September 30, 2022.

STUDY SELECTION

Experimental studies that examined the effectiveness of PA interventions on HRQoL participants aged <18 years.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review with meta-analysis and meta-regression.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 1.

METHODS

Random-effects models were used to calculate pooled effect size (ES) for total HRQoL score and its dimensions. Subgroup analyses were conducted to examine the effect of PA program characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 17 studies were included. Pooled ES (95% CI) estimations were as follows: 0.179 (0.045, 0.002) for total HRQoL score, 0.192 (0.077, 0.306) for physical well-being, 0.158 (0.080, 0.237) for psychological well-being, 0.118 (0.044, 0.192) for autonomy and parent relation, 0.135 (0.043, 0.227) for social support and peers, and 0.129 (-0.013, 0.270) for school environment. Subgroup analyses suggested there were no differences in the effectiveness of the interventions by category of PA increase or by type and duration of intervention.

CONCLUSION

Exercise interventions are an effective strategy for improving overall HRQoL and its most significant domains in children and adolescents.

Effects of a staff physical activity professional development intervention on preschoolers' mental health and self-regulation: The active learning Norwegian Preschool(er)s (ACTNOW) cluster randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Physical activity may have positive effects on preschoolers' mental health and self-regulation. The preschool setting provides children with opportunities to meet physical activity guidelines and could improve with staff training in delivering physical activity. This study examined the effect of physical activity professional development for preschool staff on preschoolers' proxy-measured mental health and self-regulation.

METHODS

In total, 1265 children from 46 preschools were cluster randomised to either the intervention or the control group. The intervention was nested within two levels implemented concurrently: the preschool level, formed as a professional development where preschools conducted development work, and the child level, with whom the staff implemented physical activity with four core components. Data were analysed using an ANCOVA model through structural equation modelling with latent outcome factors of: emotional problems, peer problems, hyperactivity, and prosocial behaviour from the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire; and cognitive, emotional, and behavioural self-regulation from the Child Self-regulation and Behaviour Questionnaire.

RESULTS

No effects of the intervention (standardised effect sizes -0.195-0.145, p-values 0.118-0.893) were observed. Secondary analysis showed that children with initially high prosocial behaviour and behavioural self-regulation positively benefited from the intervention (p = 0.035 and p = 0.047, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The ACTNOW intervention had no effects on preschoolers' mental health or self-regulation after 18 months, besides effects for children with initially the highest prosocial behaviour and behavioural self-regulation. Although the professional development was more extensive than previous studies it may have been insufficient to change the preschools physical activity practices.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov identifier NCT04048967.

Effects of active breaks on educational achievement in children with and without ADHD: study protocol and rationale of the Break4Brain project

The Break4Brain project aims to elucidate the effects of both acute and chronic physical activity (PA) on educational achievement in children with and without Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This study will be conducted in two phases: a cross-over design followed by a hybrid type 1 implementation-effectiveness trial, which includes both a cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) and a qualitative study. In phase I, 60 children aged 10-12, with 30 each from ADHD and non-ADHD groups, will participate in a laboratory-based study over 4 days within 1 month. They will participate in three counterbalanced experimental conditions: (i) PA with cognitive engagement, (ii) PA without cognitive engagement, and (iii) a cognitively engaging control. This phase will assess acute changes in brain function, academic performance, working memory, inhibitory control, and sustained attention. Phase II will involve 600 children aged 10-12, randomly assigned to either a video-based PA program or a control group (300 children per group) in an 8-week cluster RCT. This phase will also incorporate a qualitative approach to explore the implementation context through pre- and post-intervention semi-structured interviews with teachers and school staff, and questionnaires for students. The outcomes of interest in this phase will include working memory, cognitive flexibility, selective attention, and academic performance. For the cross-over study, we hypothesize that PA conditions will enhance the studied outcomes compared to the control condition. In the RCT, we anticipate that the 8-week active breaks program will result in significant improvements in the selected outcomes compared to the control group. This study is expected to make pioneering contributions by including novel variables and focusing on the ADHD population. Furthermore, if the cluster RCT proves effective, it could offer a practical and cost-effective resource for integrating active breaks into daily school routines.

Selected somatic parameters and body composition as predictors of cardiorespiratory fitness among Polish adolescents aged 11-14

The aim of the study was to verify whether selected somatic parameters and components of body composition were significant predictors of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) among a potentially healthy Polish population of adolescents aged 11-14 years. The cross-sectional study was conducted on a group of 375 subjects (164 girls, and 211 boys). A 20 m shuttle run test (20 m SRT) was used to assess CRF. The total number of rounds was taken into account. Basic somatic parameters were measured: body mass (BM), body height (BH), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and body composition components: body fat percentage (FM%), fat mass (FM kg), total body water (TBW), fat-free mass (FFM). Statistical analyses included basic statistical measures (mean and standard deviation) and Spearman rank correlation coefficient. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to detect significant predictors of CRF. In each proposed model, the dependent variable was the number of rounds, and the independent variables were selected somatic parameters and components of body composition. More than half (65%) of the subjects had an average or lower level of CRF, and 35% of the population presented a good or above good level of CRF. The study showed a statistically significant negative correlation between BM, FM%, FM kg, HC, WC, BMI, WHR, WHtR and the number of laps in the total sample. The strongest correlation in the group of girls was noted for age (r = 0.34) and in the group of boys for FM% (r = - 0.52 ). Each regression model presented proved to be statistically significant, and the significant predictors of CRF in the group of girls were age ( R 2 = 16%) and FM% ( R 2 = 6%). In the group of boys, the significant predictors of CRF were WHtR ( R 2 = 8%) and age ( R 2 = 2%). Estimating body fat distribution is useful in assessing cardiorespiratory fitness, and this in turn indicates its usefulness in preventive screening of school-aged adolescents.

Exploring the relationship between cognition and mental health in intersex participants in the UK Biobank study

Objective: The physical and mental health of intersex individuals is woefully understudied. A recent survey of intersex individuals found high rates of self-reported cognitive issues such as difficulty remembering and concentrating as well as high rates of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Method: The current study explores whether cognitive differences are observed between 353 intersex and over 400,000 non-intersex people using a latent model of cognitive tasks derived from measures in the UK (United Kingdom) Biobank study. Results: There were no differences in intelligence between intersex people and non-intersex people. We found significantly lower executive function and processing speed in intersex individuals versus non-intersex individuals. However, after accounting for mental health differences via regression and case-control matching, there were no significant differences in executive function or processing speed between intersex individuals and non-intersex individuals. Conclusion: Mental health differences between intersex and non-intersex individuals may account for differences in cognitive factor scores.

Participation in organised sports and longitudinal development of physical activity in Swiss youth: the population-based SOPHYA cohort

BACKGROUND

Maintaining physical activity throughout life is crucial for overall health and wellbeing. Yet the age-related decline in average physical activity, a natural phenomenon also observed in animals, poses a challenge. This study aimed to investigate whether participation in organised sports supported by the Swiss Youth+Sports (Y+S) programme is associated with sustaining or enhancing physical activity among children and adolescents during 5 years of follow-up.

METHODS

The longitudinal study was nested in the population-based SOPHYA (Swiss children's Objectively measured PHYsical Activity) cohort. Participants aged 6-16 years at SOPHYA1 (2014) with complete accelerometer data from baseline and follow-up assessment (SOPHYA2, 2019) were included. The primary exposure was participation in organised sport during the follow-up period, calculated by linkage with the Y+S database as the number of days with at least one activity in Y+S-offered programmes for ages 5 to 20 years. The primary outcome was the categorisation of participants into physical activity "improvers" or "worseners". Improvers in the respective physical activity categories - total activity counts per minute (CPM), minutes in moderate-to-vigorous activity (MVPA), minutes in light activity (LPA) and minutes in sedentary behaviour (SB) - increased or maintained their active physical activity during the 5 follow-up years. Information on confounders and effect modifiers (sex, age, body mass index (BMI), language region, household income, education) was obtained by self-report at baseline. Logistic regressions examined the relationship between organised sport participation and the probability of being a physical activity improver in each physical activity intensity category separately. Covariates for the final models were selected through a stepwise procedure based on the Bayesian information criterion from a maximal model containing all covariates as well as all two-way interactions with organised sport and between them. All models were a priori adjusted for technical variables (season of measurement; wear time; duration of follow-up).

RESULTS

The analysis included 432 participants. There was a strong CPM, MVPA and LPA decline from 2014 to 2019, but an increase in SB. Nevertheless, the prevalence of improvers was 22.5% for CPM, 9.5% for MVPA, 26.9% for LPA and 9.7% for SB. Engagement in organised sport between 2014 and 2019 was positively associated with CPM, MVPA and SB, but not with LPA improver status. For 30 additional days of participation in organised sport over the five years of the study, the odds of being an improver vs being a worsener increased by 4.0% for CPM (95% CI: 0.13-7.69), 6.2% for MVPA (95% CI: 0.82-11.54) and 6.0% for SB (95% CI:-1.49-13.97).

CONCLUSION

The results provide supporting evidence that organised sport in the context of the Swiss Y+S programme may empower the young to maintain an active lifestyle and even offset the age-related decline in physical activity.

Instrumented measures of sedentary behavior and physical activity are associated with depression among children and adolescents: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of observational studies

Background

Higher sedentary behavior (SB) and lower physical activity (PA) are associated with negative physical and mental health outcomes. SB and PA can be objectively assessed using inertial sensors to evaluate body movements. This study aimed to quantify the association between instrumented measures of SB (i-SB) and PA (i-PA) and depression among children and adolescents using a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

Methods

An electronic search was conducted on six databases up to May 12, 2024. A dose-response meta-analysis was conducted to determine the association between i-SB and i-PA and depression, expressed as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Five cross-sectional and 11 longitudinal studies comprising 26,109 participants met the inclusion criteria. Comparing the most sedentary with the least sedentary groups of participants resulted in a pooled ORs of 1.05 (95% CI 0.94-1.16). Comparing the least active with the most active groups of participants resulted in pooled ORs of 0.93 (95% CI 0.84-1.07), 0.89 (95% CI 0.79-1.00), 0.83 (95% CI 0.66-0.99), and 0.73 (95% CI 0.58-0.89) for light, moderate-to-vigorous (MV), vigorous, and total PA, respectively. Robust error meta-regression analyses showed clear dose-response relationships between i-SB and i-MVPA and depression.

Conclusion

Both i-SB and i-PA were significantly associated with risk of depression in children and adolescents, which may become non-significant after mutual adjustment for i-PA and i-SB.

Systematic review registration

[https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=546666], identifier [CRD42024546666].

The longitudinal association between sport participation and self-esteem in youth in the Netherlands: The role of sport type

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the longitudinal associations of sport participation with self-esteem in youth, and whether this relationship differs between team compared to individual, and non-esthetic compared to esthetic sports.

DESIGN

Prospective data on sport participation at age 10 and self-esteem at age 13 years was used, collected from 2970 participants within Generation R, a population-based cohort study in the Netherlands.

METHODS

Hours of sports per week were measured with a questionnaire, completed by the primary caregivers. Participation in sports was classified into team vs. individual and non-esthetic vs. esthetic sports. Self-esteem was assessed by the Harter's Self-Perception Profile. Linear regression analyses, adjusted for multiple testing were conducted to test the association between sports and self-esteem subdomains. Then, differences in self-esteem among youth participating in different types of sports were explored by two separate sets of linear regression with team and non-esthetic sports as the reference groups.

RESULTS

More hours of sports were associated with higher self-esteem (β = 0.081, pfdr < 0.001). This association was driven by the subdomains social acceptance (β = 0.057, pfdr = 0.004) and athletic competence (β = 0.242, pfdr < 0.001). Participation in individual or esthetic sports was associated with lower self-esteem compared to the team (β = -0.196, pfdr < 0.001) or non-esthetic (β = -0.172, pfdr = 0.002) sports.

CONCLUSIONS

Sport participation, particularly team and non-esthetic sports, may be beneficial for self-esteem among youth, driven by aspects like socializing and one's ability to do well at sports. The aspects of different types of sports could be considered for developing improved sport-related environments and effective physical activity interventions.

Mechanisms Linking Physical Activity With Mental Health in Children and Adolescents With Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Physical activity (PA) is a promising way to improve mental health in children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The current review aimed to explore the potential neurobiological, psychosocial, and behavioral mechanisms between PA interventions and mental health in children and adolescents with NDDs.

METHODS

Web of Science, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and ERIC were searched from inception to June 2023. Randomized controlled trials/quasi-experimental designs applying PA interventions and reporting at least one mental health outcome and at least one potential mechanism in children and adolescents with NDDs were included. The best evidence synthesis rating system was adopted to determine the strength and consistency of potential mechanisms and was performed in 2024.

RESULTS

In total, 45 studies were included, 29 of which were randomized controlled trials and 16 were quasi-experimental, with a total of 1,751 participants. According to the best evidence synthesis rating system, neurobiological (theta activity and P3 amplitude), psychosocial (social skills and social participation), and behavioral (motor skills and sleep) mechanisms were the frequently examined and consistent mechanisms through which PA affected mental health in children and adolescents with NDDs. However, evidence regarding P3 latency, beta activity, and physical self-concept was insufficient.

DISCUSSION

Future PA interventions could consider neurobiological (theta activity and P3 amplitude), psychosocial (social skills and social participation), and behavioral (motor skills and sleep) mechanisms. Alternatively, PA can be developed as an adjunctive approach with interventions that specifically focus on these mechanisms to enhance mental health in children and adolescents with NDDs.

Association between Academic Performance, Physical Activity, and Academic Stress in Compulsory Secondary Education: An Analysis by Sex

OBJECTIVES

The main objective of this study is to analyze the relationships between academic performance, physical activity, and academic stress in secondary education students, while the secondary objective is to establish differences by gender in the physical activity and academic stress levels of secondary students based on academic performance.

METHODS

The sample was composed of students from both sexes who attended public institutions. Data collection was conducted applying an ad hoc questionnaire for academic performance, the PAQ-C questionnaire for physical activity, and the QASSE questionnaire for academic stress. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics: Spearman's correlation coefficient was used for associations, while comparisons were conducted via the Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis H test.

RESULTS

The results show that academic stress is negatively correlated with physical activity and academic performance. Men present significantly higher values in physical activity, while women present higher mean values in general academic stress and the academic overload dimension. Lastly, regarding academic performance, significant differences were observed in the family pressure dimension, with students who perform better academically presenting lower mean values in this dimension of academic stress.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the more the general academic stress, the lower the physical activity levels and academic performance. In addition, physical activity appears as a potential coping strategy for academic stress, and its influence on academic performance should be further studied in secondary education.

Latent classes of adolescent health behaviour, social covariates and mental wellbeing: a longitudinal birth cohort study

BACKGROUND

Adolescent mental wellbeing has been declining in the United Kingdom for over a decade. Expansion of services to support the mental wellbeing of young people is a public health priority and a core component of the National Health Service's Long-Term Plan. In this paper, we leverage secondary analysis of a very large longitudinal dataset (#BeeWell) to generate insights regarding different patterns of health behaviour, their covariates, and consequences for mental wellbeing one year later.

METHODS

A Latent Class Analysis was conducted using data on physical activity, sleep, and eating habits collected in 2021 from 18,478 Year 8 pupils from Greater Manchester (United Kingdom) to (1) identify distinct latent classes of adolescent health behaviour; (2) establish factors likely to be associated with latent class membership; and (3) determine whether latent class membership contributes to variance in self-reported mental wellbeing one year later.

RESULTS

A three-class solution was identified as an excellent fit to the data, discriminating between: the Wellness Weary (n = 2,717; 15%); the Balanced Bunch (n = 7,377; 40%); and the Green and Dream Team (n = 8,384; 45%). Several factors significantly influenced class membership. Most notably, socio-economic disadvantage and social media use were linked with less favourable health behaviour patterns, whilst cisgender heterosexual girls were likely to endorse healthier patterns. After adjusting for covariates, the Green and Dream Team reported significantly greater mental wellbeing than the Balanced Bunch one year later. However, there was no difference between the Balanced Bunch and the Wellness Weary, signalling that health behaviours may support mental wellbeing, but only among the healthiest young people.

CONCLUSIONS

Beyond advancements in fundamental understanding, our findings yield significant translation opportunities through their use and application in health, education, and allied professional settings designed to support young people.

Subjective measurement of physical activity and sedentary behaviour in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy: a scoping review

PURPOSE

Physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health. Cost-effective and easily administered outcome instruments are valuable for clinical practice and large-scale population studies. The scoping review aimed to identify and map subjective instruments developed or validated to measure habitual physical activity and/or sedentary behaviour in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy aged 0-18 years across all levels of the GMFCS-E&R.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and searched the databases PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports, Embase and Pedro to identify articles.

RESULTS

From 288 full-text references, 13 studies met the inclusion criteria. Nine instruments measured habitual physical activity and/or sedentary behaviour in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy aged 18 months to 18 years. Six subjective instruments were tested for ambulatory children, while three instruments were tested in children and adolescents at GMFCS-E&R level I-V.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Reporting of the psychometric properties were found on reliability in three instruments, while data on validity were reported in all instruments. Further studies assessing the psychometric properties of subjective instruments in the target population are needed.

Effectiveness of a Parent-Based eHealth Intervention for Physical Activity, Dietary Behavior, and Sleep Among Preschoolers: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Preschoolers' lifestyles have become physically inactive and sedentary, their eating habits have become unhealthy, and their sleep routines have become increasingly disturbed. Parent-based interventions have shown promise to improve physical activity (PA), improve dietary behavior (DB), and reduce sleep problems among preschoolers. However, because of the recognized obstacles of face-to-face approaches (eg, travel costs and time commitment), easy access and lower costs make eHealth interventions appealing. Previous studies that examined the effectiveness of parent-based eHealth for preschoolers' PA, DB, and sleep have either emphasized 1 variable or failed to balance PA, DB, and sleep modules and consider the intervention sequence during the intervention period. There is an acknowledged gap in parent-based eHealth interventions that target preschoolers raised in Chinese cultural contexts.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of a parent-based eHealth intervention for PA, DB, and sleep problems among Chinese preschoolers.

METHODS

This 2-arm, parallel, randomized controlled trial comprises a 12-week intervention with a 12-week follow-up. A total of 206 parent-child dyads will be randomized to either an eHealth intervention group or a control group. Participants allocated to the eHealth intervention group will receive 12 interactive modules on PA, DB, and sleep, with each module delivered on a weekly basis to reduce the sequence effect on variable outcomes. The intervention is grounded in social cognitive theory. It will be delivered through social media, where parents can obtain valid and updated educational information, have a social rapport, and interact with other group members and facilitators. Participants in the control group will receive weekly brochures on PA, DB, and sleep recommendations from kindergarten teachers, but they will not receive any interactive components. Data will be collected at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. The primary outcome will be preschoolers' PA. The secondary outcomes will be preschoolers' DB, preschoolers' sleep duration, preschoolers' sleep problems, parents' PA, parenting style, and parental feeding style.

RESULTS

Parent-child dyads were recruited in September 2023. Baseline and posttest data collection occurred from October 2023 to March 2024. The follow-up data will be obtained in June 2024. The results of the study are expected to be published in 2025.

CONCLUSIONS

The parent-based eHealth intervention has the potential to overcome the barriers of face-to-face interventions and will offer a novel approach for promoting a healthy lifestyle among preschoolers. If this intervention is found to be efficacious, the prevalence of unhealthy lifestyles among preschoolers may be alleviated at a low cost, which not only has a positive influence on the health of individuals and the well-being of the family but also reduces the financial pressure on society to treat diseases caused by poor lifestyle habits.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06025019; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06025019.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/58344.

Associations between cardiorespiratory fitness and executive function in Chinese adolescents

Executive function (EF) has a significant impact on career achievement in adolescence and later adulthood, and there are many factors that influence EF. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is an important factor in the physical fitness of adolescents and is of great significance to healthy development. However, the current association between CRF and EF in Chinese adolescents is still unclear. For this reason, this study analysed the association between CRF and EF. A three-stage stratified cluster sampling method was used to investigate the demographic information, CRF, EF and multiple covariates of 1245 adolescents in China. One-way analysis of variance and chi-square test were used to compare the EF status of different CRFs. The association between CRF and EF was analysed using multiple linear regression analysis and logistic regression analysis. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that, after adjusting for relevant confounding factors, compared with Chinese adolescents with VO2max < P25, the inhibition function reaction time, 1back reaction time, 2back reaction time, and cognitive flexibility response time of adolescents with VO2max > P75 decreased by 1.41 ms, 238.73 ms, 273.09 ms, 74.14 ms. Logistic regression analysis showed that compared with Chinese adolescents with VO2max > P75, Chinese adolescents with VO2max < P25 developed inhibitory function dysfunction (OR 2.03, 95% CI: 1.29, 3.20), 1back dysfunction (OR 6.26, 95% CI 3.94, 9.97), 2back dysfunction (OR 8.94, 95% CI 5.40, 14.82), cognitive flexibility dysfunction (OR 2.26, 95% CI 1.44, 3.57) The risk was higher (P < 0.01). There is a positive association between CRF and EF in Chinese adolescents. High-grade CRF adolescents have higher EF levels, that is, shorter response times. This study provides reference and lessons for better promoting adolescents' executive function development in the future.

Effects of Exergaming on executive function and motor ability in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Exergaming in improving executive function and motor ability across different groups of children and adolescents. We searched several databases, including PsycINFO, Web of Science, Embase, PubMed, SPORT Discus, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, for randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies published from inception until November 25, 2023, to identify studies investigating the effect of Exergaming on motor and executive function in children. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023482281). A total of 37 randomized controlled trials were included in this study. Our results indicate that Exergaming can influence children's cognitive flexibility [SMD = 0.34, 95%CI(0.13,0.55), I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.738], inhibition control [SMD = 0.51, 95%CI (0.30,0.72), I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.473], global cognitive [SMD = 0.87, 95%CI (0.50,1.23), I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.974], working memory [SMD = 0.18, 95%CI(-0.16, 0.52), I2 = 46.5%, P = 0.096], gross motor skills [SMD = 0.82, 95%CI (0.30, 1.35), I2 = 79.1%, P<0.001], fine motor skills [SMD = 0.71, 95%CI (0.22,1.21), I2 = 78.7%, P<0.001], balance [SMD = 0.61, 95%CI (0.34, 0.88), I2 = 59.5%, P = 0.001], and cardiorespiratory [SMD = 0.48, 95%CI (0.16, 0.79), I2 = 58.4%, P = 0.019]. While these findings suggest that Exergaming can promote children's cognitive flexibility, inhibitory control, global cognition and motor abilities, the effect on working memory was not statistically significant. Further high-quality randomized controlled trials are warranted to explore the potential benefits of Exergaming for different groups of children, including those with specific needs.

Effects of physically active maths lessons on children's maths performance and maths-related affective factors: Multi-arm cluster randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Physical activity (PA) may benefit academic performance, but it is unclear what kind of classroom-based PA is optimal for learning.

AIM

We studied the effects of physically active maths lessons on children's maths performance and maths-related effects, and whether gender and previous mathematical or motor skills modify these effects.

SAMPLE

A total of 22 volunteered teachers and their pupils with signed consent (N = 397, mean age: 9.3 years, 51% females) participated in a 5-month, teacher-led, multi-arm, cluster-randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

The intervention included a PAL group (20 min of physically active learning in each 45-min lesson), a breaks group (two 5-min PA breaks in each 45-min lesson) and a control group (traditional teaching). Maths performance was assessed with a tailored curriculum-based test. Maths-related enjoyment, self-perceptions and anxiety were measured with a self-reported questionnaire. The individual-level intervention effects were tested via covariate-adjusted linear mixed-effect models with school classes serving as random effects.

RESULTS

Changes in maths performance or self-perceptions did not differ between the intervention groups. Maths anxiety in learning situations increased in the PAL group (effect .28, 95% CI = .01-.56); there was no change in the other groups. Subgroup analyses suggested that maths anxiety increased in the PAL group among children in the two lowest tertiles of motor skills. It decreased in the highest tertile. Enjoyment decreased in the breaks group among pupils in the lowest motor skill tertile.

CONCLUSIONS

Physically active maths lessons did not affect maths performance or self-perceptions but had divergent effects on maths anxiety and enjoyment, depending on motor skills.

Associations between 24-hour activity behaviours and emotional and behavioural problems of left-behind children: a component analysis of data from a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

This study employed compositional data analysis to examine the association between 24-hour activity behaviours and emotional and behavioural problems among left-behind children (LBC).

DESIGN

Cross-sectional analysis.

SETTING

The research used a cross-sectional approach to analyse data collected from LBC living in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, southern China, between February and May 2023.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 275 LBC aged 9-15 years old were recruited.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The measurement of 24-hour activity behaviour, incorporating sleep, sedentary behaviour (SED), light physical activity (LPA) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), was accomplished using accelerometers. Emotional and behavioural problems were assessed through the application of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Compositional data analysis was used to evaluate the potential relationship between the composition of 24-hour activity and emotional and behavioural problems.

RESULTS

Changes in allocation, such as transferring time from SED to sleep and LPA, were associated with better internalising (β sleep=-0.53, 95% CI -0.60 to -0.46; β LPA=-0.46, 95% CI -0.55 to -0.38) and externalising problems (β sleep=-0.31, 95% CI -0.39 to -0.22; β LP =-0.23, 95% CI -0.32 to -0.13). Furthermore, reallocating time from LPA to MVPA was associated with reduced internalising problems (β=-0.40, 95% CI -0.84 to -0.12). Positive associations with prosocial behaviour were observed when the time was reallocated to MVPA from sleep (β=0.81, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.05), SED (β=0.75, 95% CI 0.51 to 0.99) and LPA (β=0.82, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.08).

CONCLUSIONS

The composition of 24-hour activity behaviours is correlated with emotional and behavioural problems in LBC. The findings indicate that redistributing time from SED to sleep and LPA is linked to improved internalisation and externalisation problem scores. Additionally, the substitution of MVPA for any other behaviours is positively associated with enhanced prosocial behaviours.

Bidirectional Relationships Between Loneliness, Social Isolation, and Physical Inactivity in the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Cross-sectional studies show associations between loneliness, social isolation and physical inactivity. Cohort studies are shedding light on these relationships and further longitudinal investigations are needed.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess the longitudinal and bidirectional associations between loneliness, social isolation, and physical inactivity.

METHODS

Data were drawn from five annual waves of the Household and Labour Dynamics of Australia Survey (2015-2019), providing a sample of 17,303 persons (mean age = 46.3 years [SD = 18.0], 49.4% female). Relationships between loneliness, social isolation, and physical inactivity were examined using cross-lagged panel modeling, with estimation of simultaneous cross-lagged effects across each wave. Models adjusted for sociodemographic factors, chronic disease status, psychological distress, and mutually for social isolation or loneliness. Moderation of associations by sex was explored.

RESULTS

There were modest lagged effects of physical inactivity on loneliness across the survey waves (odds ratio 1.16 [95% confidence interval 1.04-1.29] to 1.20 [1.07, 1.33]). A lagged effect of physical inactivity upon social isolation was only present across three of the waves (odds ratio 1.20 [1.02-1.41] to 1.23 [1.05-1.42]). While loneliness and social isolation showed lagged effects upon physical inactivity, these did not persist with adjustment for psychological distress.

CONCLUSIONS

Longitudinal analysis found that physical inactivity consistently predicted loneliness, but not social isolation. After adjustment for confounding, loneliness and social isolation were not predictive of physical inactivity. While the strength of the associations was modest, further investigation is warranted of the type and dose of physical activity that is most beneficial for reducing loneliness.

Quality of Life Measures in Young Pre-Professional Dancers Compared to Non-Athletes and Non-Dancer Athletes

Aim: To investigate quality of life (QoL) measures in a cohort of young female dancers. Methods: Cross-sectional survey study design was utilized to study dancers 8 to 17 years enrolled in two elite dance schools in the Boston area. The main outcome measure was the Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL 4.0) questionnaire, a validated QoL survey for children, with established normative values for comparison. Demographics and questions pertaining to training regimens and injury/illness history were also included. Sub-groups (8-11 years, 12-14 years, and 15-17 years) were created to analyze outcomes by age. Results: One hundred and forty emails were delivered, 72 were completed and included in the final data analysis (51.4%). The median scores for physical, psychosocial, emotional, social, and school PedsQL sub-scales were 87.5, 90.0, 80.0, 100.0, and 92.5, respectively. The median score of the total PedsQL scores was 88.8. No difference in QoL outcomes by age group was found (physical: P = .328; psychosocial: P = .918; emotional: P = .673; social: P = .573; school: P = 0.962; total: P = 0.766). 52.5% of the participants responded that they regularly perform in shows. Median hours/week of dance rehearsal was 10 hours (mean ± standard deviation: 10.3 ± 4.9; 95% CI: 9.0, 11.6; IQR: 7.0, 13.5; range: 2.0, 20.0) and 68.9% reported they practice and rehearse throughout the entire calendar year as opposed to solely during the school year; most dancers reported participating in dance 11 months (median value) per year (mean ± standard deviation: 10.7 ± 0.8; 95% CI: 10.5, 11.0; IQR: 10.0, 11.0; range: 9.0, 12.0). Conclusion: QoL measures for young female dancers were higher relative to existing data for the general population and lower compared to other sports participation. These results will support the social, emotional, and physical health of young dancers.

Associations Between Motor Competence and Executive Functions in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Motor competence and executive functions co-develop throughout childhood and adolescence, and there is emerging evidence that improvements in motor competence may have cognitive benefits in these populations. There is a need to provide a quantitative synthesis of the cross-sectional, longitudinal and experimental studies that have examined the association between motor competence and executive functions in school-aged youth.

OBJECTIVES

The primary aim of our systematic review was to synthesise evidence of the association between motor competence and executive functions in school-aged children and adolescents (5-18 years). Our secondary aim was to examine key moderators of this association.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Ovid MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus and EMBASE databases from inception up to 27 June 2023. We included cross-sectional, longitudinal and experimental studies that assessed the association between motor competence (e.g., general motor competence, locomotor skills, object control skills and stability skills) and executive functions (e.g., general executive functions, inhibition, working memory and cognitive flexibility) in children and adolescents aged 5-18 years.

RESULTS

In total, 12,117 records were screened for eligibility, and 44 studies were included. From the 44 included studies, we meta-analysed 37 studies with 251 effect sizes using a structural equation modelling approach in the statistical program R. We found a small positive association (r = 0.18, [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.13-0.22]) between motor competence and executive functions. The positive associations were observed in cross-sectional (r = 0.17, [95% CI 0.13-0.22]), longitudinal (r = 0.15, [95% CI 0.03-0.28]) and experimental studies (r = 0.25, [95% CI 0.01-0.45]). We also found that general motor competence (r = 0.25, [95% CI 0.18-0.33]), locomotor (r = 0.15, [95% CI 0.09-0.21]), object control (r = 0.14, [95% CI 0.08-0.20]) and stability (r = 0.14, [95% CI 0.08-0.20]) skills were associated with executive functions. We did not find any moderating effects for participants' age on the associations between motor competence and executive functions.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest a small-to-moderate positive association between motor competence and executive functions in children and adolescents. The small number of experimental studies included in this review support the assertion that interventions targeting children's motor competence may be a promising strategy to improve their executive functions; however, more research is needed to confirm these findings. Future studies should explore the underlying mechanisms linking motor competence and executive functions as their comprehension may be used to optimise future intervention design and delivery.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION

CRD42021285134.

Associations between levels of physical activity and satisfaction with life among Norwegian adolescents: a cross-sectional study

Background

A robust association between physical activity (PA) and satisfaction with life (SWL) has been established, wherein self-efficacy has been identified as a mediator across different populations. However, there is a need to further examine the relationship between PA and SWL and whether self-efficacy act a as mediator within different levels of PA among Norwegian adolescents. Thus, the objective of this study was to explore the relationship between levels of PA and SWL by testing for self-efficacy as a possible mediator.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from the 2022 Norwegian Ungdata Survey was utilized. Data included demographics and various health data that was collected anonymously. The electronic survey took place in classrooms and was administered by the respective teacher. Permission to access and use data was approved by the Norwegian Agency for Shared Services in Education and Research (SIKT). Statistical analyses were conducted using the PROCESS macro by Andrew Hayes for SPSS software.

Results

Descriptive findings revealed that girls reported lower self-efficacy than boys (14.2 vs. 15.5, with a maximum of 20) and lower SWL (6.8 vs. 7.6, with a maximum of 10). About one out of five girls and one out of seven boys reported no days of weekly PA, whereas 4% of girls and 9.5% of boys adhered to the PA-recommendation of 60-min of daily exercise. Associations between PA levels and SWL was mediated by self-efficacy (all p < 0.05), with the highest indirect effect (56.3%) revealed in the association between those adhering to the PA-recommendations and SWL.

Conclusions

Norwegian girls reported more sedentary behavior, less PA, lower self-efficacy, and lower SWL than boys across all grade levels. Mediation analysis revealed that up to 56.3% of the enhancement in SWL among those adhering to 60-min of PA recommendations was explained by increased self-efficacy. Norwegian government and policymakers should promote initiatives and regulations focusing on higher levels of PA to foster a resilient adolescent population with higher individual beliefs and higher subjective wellbeing.

Neurocognitive performance of badminton players at different competitive levels in visuospatial attention tasks

Visuospatial attention (VSA) is a cognitive function that enables athletes, particularly those engaged in open-skill sports, to allocate attentional resources efficiently to the appropriate target and in the appropriate direction. Studies have indicated that expert players exhibit superior cognitive performance to that of novices. However, no study has investigated differences in VSA performance among elite, expert, and intermediate badminton players or the potential neurophysiological mechanisms underlying such differences. Accordingly, the present study explored neuropsychological and neurophysiological parameters during VSA tasks among badminton players of varying competitive levels. The study included 54 participants and divided them into three groups according to their competition records: elite (n = 18), expert (n = 18), and intermediate (n = 18). Their neuropsychological performance and brain event-related potentials (ERPs) during the Posner cueing paradigm were collected. Although the three groups did not differ in their accuracy rates, ERP N2 amplitudes, or N2 or P3 latencies, the elite and expert groups exhibited notably faster reaction times and more pronounced P3 amplitudes than did the intermediate group during the cognitive task. However, we did not observe these between-group differences when we controlled for the covariate training years. Additionally, the elite and expert groups exhibited comparable neurocognitive performance. These findings indicate that badminton players' competitive levels influence their VSA. However, the beneficial effects on neuropsychological and neurophysiological performance could stabilize after a certain level of badminton competence is reached. Year of training could also be a major factor influencing badminton players' neurocognitive performance in VSA tasks.