ABSTRACT:Adolescence, spanning ages 10-19, is a critical developmental period characterized by rapid physical, cognitive, and emotional changes. Globally, less than 25% of adolescents meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, with regional variations showing even lower levels in urban and low-income areas. Physical inactivity during this stage has been linked to increased risks of obesity, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. This study employed a longitudinal cohort design involving 500 adolescents aged 12-15 years from diverse schools. Participants were divided into an intervention group engaging in structured physical activity three times per week for six months and a control group maintaining usual routines. Physical fitness was assessed using PACER, push-up, sit-up, and sit-and-reach tests. Mental health outcomes were measured with the Beck Anxiety and Depression Inventories, and academic performance was evaluated using GPA and standardized test scores. Results showed that the intervention group improved endurance by 87% (from 15 to 28 minutes), strength by 120% (push-ups 10 to 22), and flexibility by 67% (12 to 20 cm). Anxiety scores decreased by 50% (18 to 9), depression scores by 53% (15 to 7), while GPA increased from 7.2 to 8.5, and standardized test scores improved from 65% to 82%.
These findings underscore the importance of integrating regular physical activity into school curricula and community programs. Promoting adolescent exercise can enhance holistic development, reduce mental health risks, and improve academic outcomes, highlighting the need for policies that encourage active lifestyles.