Written by Hannah Harp
Spoon Feed
Moderate-to-vigorous exercise interventions were associated with improvements in both general and fluid intelligence.
Summary
This meta-analysis examined whether exercise interventions enhance intelligence in children and adolescents, analyzing 14 randomized controlled trials (n=3,203; ages 5–14). Exercise significantly improved general intelligence (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.54, 95%CI 0.11–0.97, p=0.01) and fluid intelligence (SMD = 0.20, 95%CI 0.06–0.34, p=0.006), with an average IQ increase of 4 points. Benefits were consistent across IQ baselines, age groups, and intervention durations. Limitations included heterogeneity in exercise protocols and populations studied. The study concluded that structured exercise, particularly moderate-to-vigorous activities, positively impacts intelligence, supporting its integration into youth development strategies. Further research should explore optimal intervention characteristics. (AI-assisted)
Work harder, get smarter
This analysis adds to what we are learning about intelligence — that it’s a multifactorial trait with both genetic, environmental, and epigenetic factors. This is the first large meta-analysis looking specifically at measured intelligence (IQ, fluid, and crystallized intelligence) rather than academic performance or executive function. As with all systematic reviews, there is some heterogeneity among the exercise interventions, though the majority are moderate or vigorous exercise 3-5x/week, including some component of aerobic exercise.
How does this change my practice?
Exercise — it’s good for you in so many ways. Here’s one more way to encourage your patients to go outside and play… it makes you smarter!
Source
Exercise Interventions and Intelligence in Children and Adolescents: A Meta-Analysis. Pediatrics. 2024 Dec 1;154(6):e2023064771. doi: 10.1542/peds.2023-064771. PMID: 39506553
