When thinking of ways to support your child's learning, exercise may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, research has shown that physical activity is crucial to your child's intellectual growth. Whether it's getting them into team sports like soccer or individual sports like swimming and gymnastics, getting the body moving has positive effects on school performance and brain development. 

How Does Physical Activity Support the Brain?

Physical activity is important to a child's growth, health, and intellectual development. During exercise, the heart rate rises, meaning that the heart is pushing more oxygen into the brain. Healthy oxygen levels stimulate the brain's neurotransmitters and therefore, increase its capacity for learning and retaining new information. Kids who get regular exercise may have an easier time focusing and connecting with both their teachers and peers. 

Exercise and Academic Success

Children who are physically fit are more likely to perform better in school. Playground games often develop a child's reflexes, collaboration skills, and teach them how to follow rules. These activities help wire their brain synapses to adapt to new situations, develop solutions, and collaborate with their peers. Exercising also stimulates your child's mind as it increases their body awareness. Just one session of moderate exercise not only instantly boosts your kids' brain function, but also their confidence, which is also essential for academic success. 

Which Exercise Is Best? 

When selecting an exercise routine for your child, it's most important that they enjoy the activity. No matter what sport your child chooses, as long as their heart rate is up and their body is moving, there will be cognitive benefits. 

There are many varieties of sports for your child. Creative sports such as dance or gymnastics may appeal to artistic children. Team sports such as soccer, baseball, or basketball might be preferred by kids who thrive in social environments. Talk with your child about what interests them, and see what sport is right for your family's budget and time constraints. 
 

If your child is interested in gymnastics, the experienced instructors at The Gymnastics Training Center of Rochester Inc. can help facilitate a safe and enriching experience. This gym offers a variety of class levels ranging from ages 3-13. They also provide services for visually impaired athletes and have special needs programs so every child can thrive. To learn about the programs offered at The Gymnastics Training Center of Rochester, call today at (585) 388-8686. You can also check out the schedule online.