Research has consistently suggested that physical activity may have an overall positive effect on focus and attention as well as other aspects on cognitive function.[1] Moreover, the benefits of physical activity on focus and attention do not appear to be limited to any particular age group, since studies have found positive results in participants ranging from elementary school aged children[2] to adolescents[3][4] and older adults.[5]
However, it is worth noting that the strength of the association between exercise and cognitive function reported in studies on healthy populations has recently come under scrutiny, with one umbrella review of randomized controlled trials suggesting that much of the research performed in this field may be less conclusive than advertised.[6] More research is needed to establish a direct causal relationship between exercise and cognition, at least in healthy populations.