Impact of physical activity on the academic performance of school-going adolescents: sport and school performance

According to various national and international reports, the Moroccan education system still suffers from recurrent dysfunctions reflected in low student achievement. Indeed, different factors influence the scores of students including the rate of physical inactivity. The objective of this study is to evaluate the relationship between physical activity, sedentary behaviours and school outcomes. 689 students enrolled at Moroccan secondary schools, aged between 14 and 25, were randomly recruited from each grade. For each student, the overall average for the first semester was calculated and classified into three levels: high, medium and low. The school performance of girls is significantly higher (p< 0.05) than that of boys while boys are significantly more active (p<0.05) than girls. Physically active students have higher overall school mark averages than inactive students. Indeed, significant positive associations between the level of physical activity and school performance (r=0.176; p<0.001) and with physical education and sports performance were noted. In conclusion, the practice of physical activity should be encouraged among Moroccan students. It has beneficial effects on health in general and especially on the school performance of children and adolescents.