Association of physical activity and motor skills with academic performance in high school students of Hayatabad, Peshawar: A cross-sectional study

Background: Regular physical activity has a positive impact on brain function, improves perception, and significantly influences academic achievement. Objective: This study aimed to determine the association of physical activity, motor skills, and academic performance in high school students in Hayatabad, Peshawar. Methodology: A total of 349 students were recruited using stratified random sampling from both public and private high schools within the Hayatabad region, Peshawar, Pakistan from December 2020 to May 2021. Only students in 9th and 10th grades from public and private schools who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were included. PA was assessed using the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Academic performance was documented based on grades and percentages from recent exams, following Peshawar Board of Education rules. Motor skills were evaluated through vertical jumps, average hand strength, sit-and-reach flexibility, and 60-second pushups. Results: A statistically significant association was observed between PA and academic performance in high school students (P<0.05). Similarly, there was a statistically significant association between motor skills including vertical jump, handgrip strength and academic performance (P<0.05). However, no statistically significant associations were found between sit-and-reach test performance, (60s) push-ups and academic performance (P>0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, this study demonstrates an association between physical activity (PA) and academic performance in high school students. However, motor skills including vertical jump and handgrip strength is associated with academic performance in high school students. Keywords: Physical activity, Motor skills, Academic performance, Academic achievement