Effectiveness of School-Based Physical Activity Interventions on Health and Academic Outcomes among Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review

Physical inactivity among school-aged children has become a critical public health and educational concern, with implications for both wellbeing and academic achievement. This study conducted a systematic review to evaluate the effectiveness of school-based physical activity interventions in improving health and academic outcomes among children and adolescents. Guided by PRISMA 2020 standards, peer-reviewed empirical studies published between 2020 and 2026 were systematically identified from major academic databases. A qualitative synthesis approach was employed to analyze evidence across diverse intervention models, including enhanced physical education, physically active learning, classroom movement breaks, and school-based sports programmes.

The findings indicate that school-based physical activity interventions consistently produce significant improvements in physical health outcomes, including cardiovascular fitness, body composition, and psychological wellbeing. In addition, substantial evidence demonstrates positive effects on cognitive functioning, particularly in areas such as attention, executive function, and classroom engagement.

While the impact on standardized academic achievement remains mixed he overall evidence suggests that physical activity either enhances or does not compromise academic performance. Interventions characterized by regular implementation, moderate-to-vigorous intensity, and integration within instructional practices were found to yield the most consistent benefits.

The study concludes that school-based physical activity interventions represent effective, scalable strategies for promoting holistic student development. Integrating structured physical activity into school systems offers a practical approach to simultaneously addressing public health challenges and improving educational outcomes.