The importance of physical activities in modulation of learning behavior of students: A bio-psychological perspective

Abstract

Technological development and growing popularity of different social networking forums have engaged millions of people throughout the world to communicate and share experiences which have created a “social media addiction” phenomenon in adolescents, particularly in students. Many studies have outlined that overuse of social media and inclination towards computer based engagements in youth diminish their participation in physical activities whichtrigger different psychological problems ranging from mild to severe episodes of depression, stress, and anxiety. These problems often negatively influence the learning behavior and overall academic activities of students. Since physical activities –aerobic ones in particular –are well known for imparting stimulatory effects on physique and mental health; encouragement of students to participate regularly in physical activities and making physical activities as an integral component of syllabi could lead to enhanced learning potentials and better academic achievements. The objective of this
review is to correlate biological and psychological effects of physical activities to the learning potentials of students.