A recent study conducted in Finland has revealed that maintaining good physical fitness from childhood through adolescence is associated with improved mental health during these years. This is particularly important now, as mental health issues pose a significant challenge in society, impacting around 25% to 30% of young individuals. The findings indicate that promoting physical fitness early on may play a crucial role in reducing the risk of mental health issues later.
The research, carried out by the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä in collaboration with the Institute of Biomedicine at the University of Eastern Finland, monitored the physical fitness of 241 adolescents over an eight-year period, from childhood through adolescence. Results showed that higher cardiorespiratory fitness and enhancements in it were linked to fewer symptoms of stress and depression in adolescence.
Furthermore, the research indicated that improved motor skills from childhood to adolescence correlated with better cognitive abilities and a reduction in stress and depression symptoms. However, the link between motor skills and depressive symptoms was not as strong as that observed for cardiorespiratory fitness. Adolescent screen time partly illuminated the connections between both types of fitness and mental health outcomes.
The study advocates for early investments in physical fitness as a valuable strategy for tackling mental health and cognitive challenges during adolescence.
“There is a genuine concern regarding the decline in physical fitness among children and teenagers. Yet, the primary focus has been on their physical well-being,” states Eero Haapala, Senior Lecturer in Sports and Exercise Medicine at the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä.
Haapala adds, “Our findings should motivate policymakers, as well as parents and caregivers, to appreciate the broader implications of physical fitness, since poor fitness levels can heighten mental health issues and hinder cognitive skills essential for learning.”
“Society as a whole needs to promote the development of physical fitness in young people by encouraging participation in physical activities at school, during free time, and through hobbies,” emphasizes Haapala.
This study utilized longitudinal data from the ongoing Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children (PANIC) project, being conducted at the Institute of Biomedicine at the University of Eastern Finland under the guidance of Professor Timo Lakka. The research monitored the physical fitness of the 241 participants over an eight-year span, with mental health evaluations performed during their adolescent years. The findings were published in the journal Sports Medicine.
The PANIC Study is a part of the Metabolic Diseases Research Community at the University of Eastern Finland, which conducts research on major cardiometabolic conditions. By incorporating genetics, genomics, translational research, and lifestyle interventions, this community aims to provide substantial insights into disease mechanisms and to enhance early diagnosis, prevention, and personalized treatment approaches. It comprises 20 research groups, covering a range from fundamental research to clinical application.
