Associations between physical fitness and executive functions in 10–13 year male children in Saudi Arabia

These findings emphasize the importance of incorporating diverse physical activities in children's routines to support both physical and cognitive development, particularly in enhancing working memory, which is critical for academic achievement. From an educational and policy standpoint, integrating targeted fitness programs into school curricula may foster both physical health and cognitive development. Consequently, this study underscores the need for holistic approaches that combine physical and cognitive interventions, ultimately enhancing overall development and academic performance in schoolchildren. Hence, this study underscores the need for holistic educational interventions that integrate physical fitness with cognitive development.