Physical Fitness Linked to Improved Mental Health in Children and Young Adults

A groundbreaking study out of Taiwan has revealed a strong link between physical activity and mental health in children and adolescents. The research, published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, tracked students’ performance in various physical activities like running, sit-ups, and jumping, and compared it to their mental health diagnoses over time.

Using data from the Taiwan National Student Fitness Tests and the National Insurance Research Databases, researchers found that students who were more physically active had lower rates of mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD/ADD. The study followed students aged 10 to 11 years old for at least 3 years, analyzing their physical fitness levels and mental health diagnoses.

The study categorized physical fitness into different groups, including cardio fitness, muscular endurance, muscular power, and flexibility. Better performance in each of these categories was associated with a decreased risk of mental health disorders. For example, improved cardio fitness was linked to lower risks of anxiety, depression, and ADHD in both male and female students.

The researchers also found that better performance in physical activities could have a “dose-dependent” effect, meaning that higher levels of fitness could serve as a preventative measure for mental health disorders. This highlights the potential protective role of physical fitness in preventing the onset of mental health issues in children and adolescents.

Experts have long advocated for the benefits of exercise on mental health, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study’s authors suggest that targeted physical fitness programs could be a valuable tool in preventing mental health disorders in young people. This research underscores the importance of promoting physical activity for overall well-being in children and adolescents.