College/University Instructional Physical Activity Programs and Academic Success in Higher Education

Abstract

The goal of this review was to explore literature concerning the connection between college/university instructional physical activity programs (C/U IPAP) and academic success in college students. This was an exploratory review of the literature examining manuscripts about the connection between students taking physical activity courses from a C/U IPAP and: their proclivity to lead physically active lifestyles; physical activity and the brain; and the role that leading physically active lifestyles had on academic success. This literature review suggested that students who take a C/U IPAP course are more likely to lead a physically active lifestyle. It also suggested that there is a positive connection between physical activity and enhancing cognitive properties of the brain. Additionally, there was a connection between students who led physically active lifestyles and their academic success. In conclusion, it can be suggested that coursework taken from a C/U IPAP program will have a positive impact on the academic success of college students.