Consider the stereotype of the dumb jock: He puts so much effort into sculpting his body that there’s no time for improving his mind.
Yet research finds that how we treat our body directly affects our mind. According to a 2013 report from the Institute of Medicine, there is evidence that kids who get regular physical activity have better physical and mental health.
“Physical activity is related to lower body fat, greater muscular strength, stronger bones, and improvements in cardiovascular and metabolic health, as well as to improvements in mental health by reducing and preventing conditions such as anxiety and depression and enhancing self-esteem,” says the report.
Another study from the University of Kansas found that high school students who participated in sports did much better in all subjects, and were more likely to finish school, than their non-athletic peers.
Researchers said it wasn’t because the athletes were smarter, just that they were more motivated—a result of the life lessons learned on the field.
Lesson 1: Having Dedication and Commitment
