Advantages of walking to school

Adolescents who walk to the institute they have a better cognitive performance than those who travel by bus or car. In addition, those who spend more than 15 minutes walking to their study center also have a higher cognitive performance than those who live closer and take less time to walk.

This is stated by the research that is carried out at the international level where both parameters are related: the way of moving to school and cognitive performance.

Walking to school: improves cognitive performance

The researchers studied variables from the mode of displacement to the educational center, of cognitive performance, anthropometric variables such as the body mass index, the percentage of overweight and obesity, and the level of extracurricular physical activity of the participants.


In addition, data on family socioeconomic status were obtained using the level of education (primary, secondary or university) of the mother and the type of school (public or private) attended by the participant.

The way of traveling to the educational center It was obtained by applying a questionnaire in which the participants were asked what was their usual way of going to school, answering one of the following options: walking, bicycle, car, bus or subway, motorcycle, other means. In addition, he was asked about the time it took to make the trip.

Cognitive performance was measured applying the Spanish version of a test of educational skills. The participants completed this standardized test that measures the intelligence and basic skills the subject has to learn. This test evaluates the mastery of the language, the speed at the time of performing mathematical operations and the ability to reason.


The cerebral plasticity in adolescence

Researchers say that, during adolescence, the plasticity of the brain is greater than in any other period of life, which makes this stage the most indicated to stimulate cognitive function.

However, adolescence is the period of life where there is a greater fall in physical activity, which is much more pronounced in girls. Therefore, inactive adolescents may be losing a very important stimulus to improve their learning and academic performance.

Move walking to the educational center It is a healthy and daily habit, which contributes to the adolescent being more active the rest of the day and participating in physical and sports activities; this produces an increase in energy expenditure and, ultimately, a better state of health.


Video: Stepping It Up: Kids Say Walking to School is Healthy, Fun, and Good for the Environment


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