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A recent study from Finland suggests that good physical fitness from childhood to adolescence is linked to better mental health outcomes in adolescence. The research, conducted by the University of Eastern Finland and the University of Jyväskylä, highlights the protective role of physical fitness, especially in light of rising mental health concerns affecting up to 30% of today’s youth. Findings from this study indicate that fostering physical fitness in children could serve as a preventive measure for mental health issues in adolescence.
The longitudinal study tracked 241 adolescents over eight years as part of the ongoing Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children (PANIC) study. Results revealed that adolescents who demonstrated good cardiorespiratory fitness, or improvements in this area over time, experienced fewer stress and depressive symptoms. Motor fitness, another focus of the study, was also found to positively impact mental health, though its effect on reducing depressive symptoms was weaker compared to that of cardiorespiratory fitness. Higher motor fitness correlated with better cognitive function, and researchers noted that increased screen time during adolescence partially explained these associations between fitness levels and mental health outcomes.
This study underscores the importance of prioritizing physical fitness as an intervention to mitigate mental health issues among adolescents. With concerns about declining physical fitness in children, the study’s lead researchers emphasize the need for a societal approach to promote physical activity through schools, leisure programs, and community involvement. According to Dr. Eero Haapala, a senior lecturer at the University of Jyväskylä, poor physical fitness can increase mental health challenges and impair cognitive skills needed for learning.
The PANIC study is part of the Metabolic Diseases Research Community, which investigates major cardiometabolic diseases and supports early interventions for health improvement. Researchers hope that these findings will encourage policymakers to support childhood fitness for long-term mental health and cognitive benefits.