Julian Reed explores connection between upper body strength, academic achievement

Furman University’s Julian Reed explores the relationship between upper body muscular strength and endurance (UMSE) and academic achievement in a study published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport. Reed, a professor of health sciences and co-founder and CEO of ActivEd, Inc., found a positive association between UMSE and academic performance in both mathematics and English language arts among a South Carolina cohort of 5th and 8th graders.

SCRA, the South Carolina Research Authority, also mentioned the news, drawing on a press release from ActivEd. Reed, creator of the Walkabouts Platform, said, “Active children aren’t just healthier – they learn better. This new study reinforces what we’ve uncovered through decades of research: physical activity, including building muscular strength, plays a vital role in academic success.”