Does Aerobic Fitness = Higher IQ?

The University of Gothenburg in Sweden recently discussed the results of a study that looked at the relationship between aerobic fitness and IQ in teenagers.  After evaluating data of over 1 million 18 year olds, results suggested that the students who maintained the best aerobic fitness between the ages of 15-18 had the best IQ's at age 18.  These students were more likely to succeed in college and the job world.  Interestingly the study also found that fitness was a more important factor in determining intelligence in twins, rather than genetics.  This was true even in identical twins!

In PE class, we discuss how exercise can improve the brain.  When you exercise, there is an increase in oxygen and nutrients to the brain.  Research has also shown that a substance known as BDNF (brain derived neurotrophic factor) is released in response to vigorous exercise.  BDNF acts to rejuvenate brain cells and strengthen the connections between brain cells.

The researchers concluded the following:  "“The results provide scientific support for educational policies to maintain or increase physical education in school curricula,” Pedersen said. “Physical exercise should be an important instrument for public health initiatives to optimize cognitive performance, as well as disease prevention at the society level.”

Maria A. I. Åberga, Nancy L. Pedersen, Kjell Toréne, Magnus Svartengrenf, Björn Bäckstrandg, Tommy Johnssonh, Christiana M. Cooper-Kuhna, N. David Åberga, Michael Nilssona, and H. Georg Kuhna. Cardiovascular fitness is associated with cognition in young adulthood. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.  2009 November
Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden.