As Exams Approach: Why Parents Tell Kids to “Stop Playing Sports and Focus on Studying”
Many parents see sports and play as a waste of time and the enemy of studying.
But have you ever wondered why students who exercise regularly often have better focus and mood than those who sit at a desk for 24 hours straight?
Scientific research shows: “Exercise isn’t a luxury—it’s fuel for the brain.”
At Talead Academy, we believe a student is a whole person, not just a memorization machine. For the brain to perform at its best, the body must be rested and active. Here’s the amazing connection between physical activity and exam grades:
1. Oxygen Pump to the Brain
Imagine studying for hours while slouched over a book. Blood pools in your legs, oxygen flow to the brain drops, and the student feels sleepy and sluggish.
Even 20 minutes of brisk walking acts like a “pump,” increasing blood flow loaded with oxygen and nutrients to the brain.
Result: The brain wakes up, cells regenerate, and memory and comprehension return to peak performance.
Half an hour of exercise can give the brain the equivalent of two extra hours of effective study!
2. Releasing “Stress Charges”
Exam periods are full of stress: fear of failure, accumulated lessons, and mental pressure cause the body to release stress hormones (cortisol), which distract and irritate the student.
Exercise is a natural stress reliever. Movement triggers the release of happy hormones (endorphins and serotonin), instantly improving mood and allowing the student to return to studying calm and positive.
3. Solution for “Excess Energy”
Some students, especially younger ones, have too much energy and can’t sit still for even 10 minutes.
Instead of forcing them to stay seated, let them release that energy through physical activity.
After playing and moving, the body experiences “positive fatigue”, and the student can sit and study calmly with better focus.
4. It’s Not About “Athletic Achievement”… It’s About Activation
We’re not saying the student should spend 4 hours on the field until exhausted.
The key is balance. Allocate 30–45 minutes daily for walking, cycling, home exercises, or light sports.
This short time refreshes energy for the rest of the day and acts as a smart break between study sessions.
