The Impact of School-Based Physical Activity on Academic Performance Among Middle School Students in Excellent School at Shah Alam

Abstract

This paper examines how physical activity in schools affects the academic achievement of middle school children in Shah Alam, Malaysia. In particular, the study examines the ability of the frequency, intensity, and the nature of physical activities to have an impact on cognitive abilities, emotional well-being, and general achievement in school. Through quantitative research approach, the study collected data of 169 students in the middle classes through standardized data collection methods like Physical Activity Questionnaire of Adolescents (PAQ-A) and academic performance indicators. The results show that academic performance especially with regard to memory, attention and problem-solving skills are positively correlated with physical activity and are important in academic success. The paper also investigates the importance of socio-economic status of students in the participation of school based physical activities, which is that students with higher socio-economic status enjoy more resources and can therefore engage in physical activities on a more regular basis. In addition, the study also finds that well-organized physical exercises, such as team sports, play a major role in boosting the ability of the students to be more focused, motivated, and in control of their emotions, which in turn has a positive impact on their academic performance. The study reaches a conclusion that inclusion of physical activity in the school curriculum has the potential to improve the physical health and academic performance of the students and makes recommendations to the educators, school administrators and policymakers on how the physical education programs can be improved to allow all students, irrespective of their socio-economic status, equitable access to physical activities.