Can physical exercises increase the students mathematics abilities?

Background and purpose The importance of physical education and its impact on overall cognitive development has garnered increasing attention in recent years, particularly in relation to academic achievement. The aim of this research is to investigate the potential relationship between physical exercise and mathematical ability, addressing the key issue of whether engaging in physical activities can enhance cognitive skills related to mathematics; to address this problem, empirical data will be required, including standardized mathematical assessment scores and physical fitness levels from a diverse sample of students across various age groups. Material and methods This article investigates the potential relationship between physical exercise and mathematical ability, focusing on the question of whether engaging in physical activities can enhance cognitive skills related to mathematics. To address this issue, the study utilizes empirical data derived from standardized mathematical assessment scores and physical fitness levels collected from a diverse sample of students across various age groups. We analyzed the sources of scientific literature on the problem of online teaching of physical exercises to university students using data from four leading scientific databases: Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google scholar. We used the EQUATOR network (Enhancing the QUAlity and Transparency Of health Research) recommendations to select empirical studies and the PRISMA recommendations to select theoretical papers (systematic reviews and meta-analyses). Results The findings reveal a positive correlation between regular physical exercise and improved mathematical performance, with significant enhancements noted particularly among younger participants. These results suggest that incorporating physical activity into educational curricula could serve as a strategic intervention to enhance students' cognitive functioning, thereby fostering better academic outcomes in mathematics. The significance of these findings extends into the healthcare domain, highlighting the importance of physical fitness not only for physical well-being but also for cognitive development and academic performance. Conclusions By emphasizing the interconnectedness of physical health and academic achievement, this research underscores the necessity for educators and policymakers to reconsider current educational strategies, potentially leading to the integration of physical exercise programs within school systems. Such integration may not only bolster mathematical competencies among students but also contribute to their overall health and cognitive resilience, establishing a foundation for improved educational and health outcomes in the broader population.