A daily process analysis of physical activity, sedentary behavior, and perceived cognitive abilities

• Perceived cognitive abilities fluctuate considerably from day-to-day.
• Daily physical activity was linked with greater perceived cognitive abilities.
• Overall physical activity was unassociated with perceived cognitive abilities.
• Relations between sedentary behavior and cognitive abilities were mixed.

ObjectivesThis study evaluated the role of both physical activity and sedentary behavior in daily perceptions of cognitive abilities and whether these relations exist within-person, between-person, or both.DesignNon-experimental, intensive longitudinal research using ecological momentary assessments.MethodCollege students wore accelerometers and provided end-of-day reports on physical activity, sedentary behavior, and perceived cognitive abilities for 14 days.ResultsAcross self-reports and objective measures of behavior, daily deviations in physical activity were positively associated with perceived cognitive abilities. Daily deviations in self-reported, but not objectively-assessed, sedentary behavior also were negatively associated with perceived cognitive abilities. Contrary to previous research, overall levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviors were not associated with perceived cognitive abilities.ConclusionsThese findings indicate that physical activity has a within- rather than between-person association with perceived cognitive abilities although between-person associations effects may require longer monitoring periods to manifest. Further research is needed to establish the direction of causality and resolve whether the nature (rather than quantity) of sedentary activities influences cognition.