How well do muscular strength and endurance predict cognitive function in youth?

Background: Muscular strength and endurance (MSE) have been correlated to healthy physical and mental condition throughout the lifespan. Objective: The main objective of this study was to investigate how well do MSE predict cognitive function in youth, after controlling for age. Methods: The sample comprised 302 students (157 girls and 145 boys), mean age 15.7 years (SD = 2.7, range 9.9-20.6), from the 5th to the 12th year, in 5 public schools. Cognitive Telephone Screening Instrument (COGTEL) as used to access cognitive function. MSE of students were assessed using the hand grip test (static strength) and sit-ups (trunk strength) from EUROFIT battery. Bivariate correlations and hierarchical multiple regression analyses were performed on the data analysis. Results: COGTEL was positively related to static strength (r=.282, p<.001) and trunk strength tests scores (r=.268, p<.001). Age explained 5.9% of the variance in COGTEL (step 1). After entry MSE at step 2, the total variance explained by the model as a whole was 12%. In the final model, both age and MSE composite score were statistically significant, with the MSE recording a higher beta value (beta=.264, p<.001) than age (beta=.136, p=.034). Conclusion: this study reinforces that better MSE significantly correlates to higher performance in cognitive function. Moreover, MSE predict cognitive function in youth in the same proportion as age does.