Exploring the Relationship Between Student Health, Fitness, and Academic Achievement: A Case Study

Abstract

This study explores the link between student health, fitness, and academic achievement through a six-month pilot programme conducted at a higher secondary school in Thimphu, Bhutan. A total of 1,322 students aged 9–21 participated in standardized health-related fitness tests (endurance, strength, flexibility, body composition) and skill-related tests (agility, speed, reaction, balance). Academic outcomes were measured using GPA, subject grades, and attendance. Participation was nearly balanced (648 males, 673 females), with involvement peaking in Year 8 (204 students). BMI analysis (N=1,288) revealed a mean of 20.10 (SD=3.89), with 25th, 50th, and 75th percentiles at 17.40, 19.39, and 22.09, respectively, indicating a generally healthy cohort but with underweight and obese outliers (range 11.67–37.49). Correlations between BMI and academic performance were minimal (high BMI r = –0.14; low BMI r = 0.00). Fitness–academic links varied: sprint performers achieved higher averages in English (62.3) and geography (55.6), while strength-focused students lagged in history (20). Heart rate analysis showed no consistent positive relationship with performance. Overall, structured activity improved classroom behavior, attention, and resilience, reinforcing that physical fitness is a catalyst for academic engagement. The findings recommend national curriculum integration, gender-inclusive programmes, teacher training, and a digital health database to sustain evidence-based interventions.