Youngsters who exercise have a higher IQ
Young adults who are fit and healthy have a higher IQ and are more likely to go on to university, it has been revealed.Researchers from the Sahlgrenska Academy looked at the results of both physical and IQ tests taken by 1.2 million youngsters doing military service in Sweden.
They found a clear link between good physical fitness and better results for the IQ test.
Also those who were fit at 18 were more likely to go into higher education, and many secured more qualified jobs.
"Being fit means that you also have good heart and lung capacity and that your brain gets plenty of oxygen," said Michael Nilsson, professor at the Sahlgrenska Academy
By analysing data for twins the researchers say they have also been able to determine that it is primarily environmental factors and not genes that explain the link between fitness and a higher IQ.
Michael Nilsson added: "This may be one of the reasons why we can see a clear link with fitness, but not with muscular strength. We are also seeing that there are growth factors that are important."
LINKS
Sahlgrenska Academy
Michael Nilsson added: "This may be one of the reasons why we can see a clear link with fitness, but not with muscular strength. We are also seeing that there are growth factors that are important."
LINKS
Sahlgrenska Academy
