• Dr Tilak Kumar

Abstract Background University students have increasingly adopted sedentary lifestyles despite substantial evidence that physical activity enhances cognitive function. However, limited empirical research examines how structured physical activity programs affect academic performance in higher education settings. Aim To assess the impact of structured physical activity programs on academic performance among university students using advanced statistical methodologies. Methodology This quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test control group study included 100 students (50 intervention, 50 control) aged 18–25 years. The intervention comprised 8 weeks of supervised structured physical activity (3 sessions/week, 45–60 minutes each). Academic performance, cognitive function, and physical activity levels were measured using standardized instruments (IPAQ, cognitive assessment battery, and researcher-developed questionnaire). Statistical analysis included parametric and non-parametric tests, effect size calculations (Cohen's d), multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), and hierarchical regression analysis. Key Findings Students participating in the structured physical activity program demonstrated significantly higher post-intervention academic performance (mean GPA: 7.9 ± 0.52 vs. 6.8 ± 0.48 pre-intervention; t = 8.42, p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.84). The intervention group showed significantly greater improvement compared to controls (F = 21.34, p < 0.001). Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that structured physical activity predicted 28% of variance in academic performance (R² = 0.282, p < 0.001) after controlling for demographic variables. MANOVA results indicated significant multivariate effects across cognitive domains (Wilks' Λ = 0.64, p < 0.001). Effect sizes were large (η² = 0.41). Conclusion Structured physical activity programs significantly enhance academic performance among university students through multiple cognitive and neurobiological mechanisms. Universities should integrate supervised exercise programs into academic routines to promote student wellness and academic success. These findings support institutional investment in comprehensive physical activity interventions.

Keywords Physical activity, Academic performance, Cognitive function, University students, Intervention study, Neuroplasticity, Effect size, Multivariate analysis, Hierarchical regression

"Impact of Structured Physical Activity Programs on Academic Performance Among University Students", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 1, page no.a339-a362, January-2026, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2601043.pdf

"Impact of Structured Physical Activity Programs on Academic Performance Among University Students", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 1, page no. ppa339-a362, January-2026, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2601043.pdf