Outdoor Activities Helps Kids Focus More Than Indoor
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We all know physical activity is good for kids—but did you know where they exercise can make a big difference? A new study from Nottingham Trent University found that exercising outdoors helps kids focus and think better than doing the same activity indoors.
Let’s explore what the research says and how we can use this information to help children thrive.
The Study: Indoors vs. Outdoors
In the study, 45 children aged 11–13 took part in two identical basketball sessions—one indoors and one outdoors. Each session included warm-ups, drills, and a mini game, all run in exactly the same way.
Before, right after, and 45 minutes after each session, the kids completed brain tests. These tested their memory, attention, and ability to ignore distractions. The results were clear: the outdoor session led to better brain performance.
Kids reacted faster, remembered things more accurately, and paid attention better after playing outside—especially 45 minutes after the activity.
Why Does Being Outdoors Help?
There are two main reasons why outdoor activity boosts brain function more than indoor workouts:
- Nature gives the brain a break. According to something called Attention Restoration Theory, natural settings like parks and schoolyards help the brain relax. This rest allows kids to return to their schoolwork with better focus.
- Being outside reduces stress. Even though the kids said they enjoyed both sessions equally, the outdoor setting may still help calm the mind and improve thinking by lowering stress levels.
Key Benefits Found in the Study
- Better memory: Kids who exercised outside remembered more.
- Faster thinking: They responded quicker in brain games after outdoor play.
- Improved attention: They were better at staying focused and ignoring distractions.
These effects were stronger after the outdoor session—even though the kids actually moved less and did fewer sprints outside than they did indoors!
How to Use This in Everyday Life
Here are some simple ways to make use of these findings:
- Hold PE classes outside whenever the weather allows—even if the activities stay the same.
- Encourage outdoor recess and playtime to help kids return to class more focused.
- Let kids do homework breaks outside. Even a few minutes in nature can help clear the mind.
- Use parks and green spaces for after-school activities, sports practices, or just unstructured play.
The Bottom Line
Outdoor exercise doesn’t just help kids stay fit—it helps them think better, too. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or coach, encouraging kids to be active outside is a simple, free way to support their brain power and school success.