A study from Australia, spanning 34 years, has shown that better childhood fitness is associated with better cognition in midlife. Study type: Prospective The study began in 1985 with 1244 participants aged 7 to 15. The fitness and waist-to-hip ratio were measured at the beginning and followed up between 2017 and 2019 (aged 39–50). Composites of psychomotor speed-attention, learning-working memory, and global cognition were assessed.
Results Children with the highest fitness levels and lower waist-to-hip ratio had better speed processing, attention, cognitive function, and decreased risk of dementia. No link was detected between childhood fitness and learning-working memory in midlife. Developing strategies that improve fitness and decrease obesity levels in childhood can enhance cognitive performance in midlife. Note : The results were not impacted by socioeconomic status and…
