Learning is a complex phenomenon and multi-faceted in nature. There are a number of parameters which influence learning cycle and the process in general. Physical exercise is thought to be one of the variants that affect the learning phenomenon. Accumulated scientific evidence can be found in the literature showing high correlations between physical activity and academic performance and cognitive functioning. The main purpose of the present paper is to present research findings on the correlations between physical activity, learning and academic performance. It is also intended to give international perspective on the importance of physical education at schools with a view to providing basis for the recommendations made for curriculum developers and policy makers in Turkey responsible for pre-teacher training curriculum.