Research and policy

Increasing participation

Different groups of people within the sport and recreation community have different requirements. Identifying these groups and fostering inclusion allows focused development in specific areas within the industry.

Active kids are smarter

Research proves that if your kid is physically active they do better at school.

Physical activity enhances cognitive function improving memory, behaviour, concentration and academic achievement.

On the other hand inactivity negatively impacts brain health and executive control including: 

• maintaining focus
• working memory
• multi-tasking.

Did you know?

• Most research shows replacing academic lessons with physical activity does not have a detrimental impact on school grades – in fact some research shows increased participation in physical activity leads to better grades.
• Most university-based, internationally-published research in this field has found a positive link between children’s physical activity participation and academic achievement.
• Short amounts of exercise benefits executive functions.
• More intense physical activity out of school resulted in higher test scores and improved reading comprehension.
• Physical activity intervention led to significant improvements in children’s maths scores.
• Students who exercised more, participated in sport and achieved higher grade point averages.

Why is this?

• Exercise can increase levels  of a brain growth factor.
• Exercise can stimulate nerve growth.
• Regular physical activity may reduce plasma noradrenaline (a vasoconstrictor which reduces blood flow to the brain).
• Exercise increases blood flow to the cortex of the brain.
• Physical activity improves children’s concentration, attention and reasoning ability.
• Physical activity leads to improvement in cognitive control.

Who says this?

30 ways sport and recreation benefits people and communities

1. Brings people together, providing opportunities for social interaction.
2. Empowers, inspires and motivates individuals.
3. Keeps kids away from the TV or computer screen!
4. Kids who participate learn better and are more likely to enjoy school.
5. Improves mental health.
6. Eases pressure on the health system.
7. Contributes to social capital.
8. Healthy workers are more productive and take less sick days.
9. Creates positive alternatives to youth offending, antisocial behaviour and crime.
10. Reduces pollution – promotes use of active modes of transport like walking and cycling.
11. Provides a vehicle for inclusion, drawing together people of different races, religions and cultures.
12. Creates opportunities for, and promotes, volunteering.
13. Contributes to higher levels of self-esteem and self-worth.
14. Helps to sustain the environment through protecting open space and natural areas.
15. Sport and recreation clubs are the hub of community life, especially in the regions.
16. Provides work/life balance.
17. Binds families and communities through shared experiences.
18. Helps shape our national character and pride.
19. Creates employment opportunities.
20. Promotes a healthy, active lifestyle.
21. Develops life skills and leadership abilities.
22. Provides a sense of belonging.
23. Fosters community pride.
24. Tones and strengthens the body.
25. Galvanises communities in times of need.
26. Economic growth through business investment, employment, major events and tourism.
27. Contributes to lifelong learning.
28. Great opportunities for networking.
29. Reduces obesity.
30. Can help to prevent cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some cancers.