Finals Week - The Value of Nutrition, Sleep & Exercise for Academic Success

Written by: Ron Samson, Assistant Athletic Director of Sports Medicine and Campus Health, Head Athletic Trainer

We often look for student-athletes to be successful in their respective sport, but it is equally important to be successful academically in the classroom. Being well-balanced with proper nutrition, proper sleep, and adequate exercise will help student-athletes be the best versions of themselves in the classroom.  

Research has shown that a well-balanced diet directly affects the mental capacity of school-age children. Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals are shown to inhibit cognitive abilities and mental concentration. Multiple studies show that increased nutrient intake can positively affect cognitive ability and intelligence levels. 

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has recommended that teenagers aged 13–18 should sleep 8-10 hours per 24 hours.  As with nutrition, if the body is not receiving enough rest it can not function properly. A sleep-deprived student will struggle from functioning in the classroom to performing on the field. These struggles can include drowsiness, difficulty in concentrating, and lack of energy. In the classroom, these things can contribute to lower grades, while athletically these things can contribute to poor performance and injury.  Learning the value of time management can assist in developing a successful sleep routine. Student-athletes can struggle to balance academics, athletics, a job, and/or other activities. This usually leads to sacrificing sleep to fulfill other commitments. 

While good sleep habits and proper nutrition are key components for academic success, physical activity also plays a role. The CDC states that physical activity can have an impact on cognitive skills, attitudes, and academic behavior, all of which are important components of improved academic performance. These include enhanced concentration and attention as well as improved classroom behavior. The CDC also recommends 60 minutes of daily physical activity, most of which is aerobic, but some can be resistance training.  

There is a vast amount of research available on these topics and why they play a role in academic success. With finals approaching, it is important to have a well-balanced routine to incorporate these important components to give your student athlete an opportunity for optimal performance in the classroom.