CEREBRO ADOLESCENTE Y DEPORTE: VÍNCULOS ENTRE EMOCIÓN, PLASTICIDAD Y APRENDIZAJE DESDE LAS NEUROCIENCIAS

Angie A Loor Benítez

doi:10.56124/tj.v8i20.015

Authors

Angie A Loor Benítez Universidad Casa Grande https://orcid.org/0009-0005-9405-4214

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56124/tj.v8i20.015

Keywords:

adolescence, neurodevelopment, sport

Abstract

Adolescence is a critical neurodevelopmental period characterized by heightened brain plasticity and substantial reorganization of circuits involved in emotional regulation, executive functioning, and socioaffective processing. In this context, physical exercise emerges as a significant modulator due to its effects on key neurobiological mechanisms, including increased BDNF expression, enhanced prefrontal perfusion, and reduced stress markers. The aim of this review was to synthesize recent evidence on the impact of physical activity and sport on adolescent neurodevelopment by integrating cognitive, emotional, and neurobiological findings.

A narrative review was conducted using literature published between 2019 and 2025 across major scientific databases, including neuroimaging studies, experimental trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. Results indicate that regular exercise improves inhibition, working memory, and cognitive flexibility, while also enhancing emotional stability through the modulation of the amygdala, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and anterior cingulate cortex. Additionally, in young athletes, motivational climate and socioemotional context influence the effectiveness of emotion regulation strategies and overall mental health.

Overall, the evidence suggests that sport is an effective tool for promoting healthy neurodevelopment, exerting influence at molecular, neural, and cognitive–emotional levels. It is concluded that the systematic incorporation of physical activity into educational and community settings may support neurocognitive maturation and psychological well-being during adolescence

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