This term our Key Stage 4 children have been using exercise to improve cognition.
Researchers say that there are two ways to improve attention; through attention training (AT), and through attention state training (AST). AST is what we strive for as it is about getting into a specific state of mind that allows a stronger focus on academic tasks –this is the Up-Grade way!
Martial arts are a main form of AST, and supporting this, recent research has shown a link between practice and improved alertness. Further promoting this idea, an additional study showed that martial arts practice is linked with better performance on attention tasks.
We believe that developing self-esteem and self-confidence through measurable achievement is the key to unlocking a child’s highest potential. We know that emotional and physical development go hand in hand, therefore utilise the skill set of Up-Grade to apply their deep knowledge of physical skill-building with our children alongside our therapeutic led practice and academic education to develop the ‘whole-child’.
Up-Grade Training offer every child the opportunity to develop specific skills and receive tangible, meaningful rewards – both extrinsic and intrinsic – at every milestone. As well as general fitness and physical well-being, countless scientific studies have shown time-and-time-again that physical challenge will raise endorphins which provide:
- Stress relief
- All-round improvement in mood
- Increased energy
- Increased mental alertness
