Razi University

Obesity and elevated body mass index (BMI) in children represent a global challenge with far-reaching consequences for physical and mental health, as well as academic achievement (e.g., mathematics). Deficits in executive function (EF), motor proficiency, and spatial ability have been reported in children with high BMI. However, the precise mediating mechanisms through which BMI influences mathematical performance—particularly within a comprehensive model examining the simultaneous role of these three variables—remain incompletely understood. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between BMI and mathematical performance in 8- to 10-year-old students, focusing on the mediating roles of executive function, motor proficiency, and spatial ability to elucidate the direct and indirect pathways of these complex relationships. This correlational study utilized a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach. The statistical population comprised 8- to 10-year-old students in Sanandaj during the 2024–2025 academic year. A sample of at least 200 students girls was selected using multi-stage cluster sampling. Data collection instruments included height and weight measurements for BMI calculation, the Stroop and N-Back tests for executive function, the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (BOT-2) for motor skills, a Mental Rotation Test for spatial ability, and a researcher-developed test for mathematical performance. Data were analyzed using    and AMOS software through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and structural equation modeling. The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms linking obesity, cognitive-motor performance, and academic success in children. Identifying specific mediating pathways provides a foundation for designing multifaceted, comprehensive interventions that support physical health alongside cognitive and motor development, ultimately enhancing academic performance and overall well-being in children.    Keywords: Body Mass Index, Executive Function, Mathematical Performance, Motor Proficiency, Spatial Ability