Physical Activity and the Achievement Gap Among Urban Minority Youth

RESULTS:

• School-based physical education programs have been shown to improve physical activity and fitness.
• Physical activity and fitness have a positive effect on the brain and cognition which could improve learning.
• Therefore, increasing opportunities for physical activity in schools could improve academic achievement among youth who are less active, including minority youth.
• Active transportation to school may be a good way to increase physical activity among low-income, minority youth.

METHODS:

• This study is a literature review of connections between physical activity and academic achievement and approaches for increasing physical activity and fitness through school environments, with a particular focus among urban minority youth populations.