Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Benefits of Physical Activity During the School Day to Reduce Mental Fatigue and Optimize Cognitive and Psychosocial Processes in Secondary School Students
Sponsor: University of Extremadura
Summary
The main aim of the MENTALFIT project is to test the effectiveness of physically active teaching methodologies to reduce mental fatigue and optimize cognitive, emotional, and motivational processes in secondary school students. Specifically, the study aims to examine differences depending on the type of physically active strategy implemented (physically active learning, active breaks, and active recesses) on students' mental fatigue, cognitive function, group dynamics, and motivational processes. Furthermore, the project aims to compare whether learning and academic performance are similar in traditional classes versus classes employing a physically active teaching methodology. Finally, a secondary objective of the project is to create and validate new instruments to assess the different psychobiological and educational processes included in this project.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
13 Years - 18 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
434
Start Date
2025-09-29
Completion Date
2026-06-30
Last Updated
2026-02-23
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Interventions
Active breaks
AB are implemented three times per week on days without physical education classes, providing a total of six active break sessions weekly (two per day on intervention days). Each session consists of 5 minutes of physical activity scheduled after the second and fifth academic periods to interrupt prolonged sedentary behaviour. Delivered over 9 weeks per trimester. A specialised facilitator provides direct support during all intervention sessions to coordinate the timing and implementation of activities.
Physically active learning
PAL integrates physical movement into academic instruction. Two 55-minute lessons per week are dedicated to integrating motor activities with curriculum content. The intervention is coordinated by a specialised facilitator who co-designs the sessions with subject-matter teachers to maintain academic rigor while promoting physical engagement. Delivered over 9 weeks per trimester.
Active Recess
AR provides structured opportunities for physical activity during school breaks. Every day of the week, two activities are offered during recess: one involving moderate physical activity and another involving more vigorous or intense activity (alternative games). The intervention modifies playground spaces and provides diverse sports equipment to encourage movement. Delivered over 9 weeks per trimester. A specialised facilitator provides direct support during all intervention sessions to coordinate the implementation of the activities.
Locations (1)
University of Extremadura
Cáceres, Spain