ABSTRACT
Since the 1990s, a body of literature has emerged investigating the impact of single acute bouts of physical activity on cognitive function. To establish the underlying mechanisms, studies were first conducted on mice before progressing to humans in laboratory-based studies. Cognition refers to a series of mental processes that contribute to perception, memory, intellect and action. Within school, these processes are essential to processing new information and goal-directed behaviours. This chapter suggests that, while it is inappropriate to use a single label for cognitive processes that have multiple dimensions, it is equally inappropriate to use single tests to represent whole systems as complex as cognition. A recent systematic review found that single bouts of physical activity positively impact children's cognitive performance. Quantitative exercise focuses on predetermined intensity and duration and is often moderate to vigorous in nature. Cautious optimism regarding claims for the impact of acute bouts of physical activity on cognition within the school environment is suggested.
