A Pandemic within the Pandemic? Physical Activity Levels Substantially Decreased in Countries Affected by COVID-19

• DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052235
• Publication Date: 2021-02-25T01:53:21Z
• Authors: Jan Wilke; Lisa Mohr; Adam S. Tenforde; Pascal Edouard; Chiara Fossati; Marcela González-...; Celso Sánchez Ram...; Fernando Laiño; Benedict Tan; Julian David Pillay; Fabio Pigozzi; David Jimenez-Pavon; Bernhard Novak; Johannes Jaunig; Mandy Zhang; Mireille van Poppel; Christoph Heidt; Steffen Willwacher; Gustavo Yuki; Daniel E. Lieberman; Lutz Vogt; Evert Verhagen; Luiz Hespanhol; Karsten Hollander
• Keywords: Pandemic

Governments have restricted public life during the COVID-19 pandemic, inter alia closing sports facilities and gyms. As regular exercise is essential for health, this study examined effect of pandemic-related confinements on physical activity (PA) levels. A multinational survey was performed in 14 countries. Times spent moderate-to-vigorous (MVPA) as well vigorous only (VPA) were assessed using Nordic Physical Activity Questionnaire (short form). Data obtained leisure occupational PA pre- restrictions. Compliance with guidelines calculated based recommendations World Health Organization (WHO). In total, n = 13,503 respondents (39 ± 15 years, 59% females) surveyed. Compared to pre-restrictions, overall self-reported declined by 41% 42.2% (VPA). Reductions higher vs. time, young old middle-aged persons, previously more active less individuals, but similar between men women. pre-pandemic, compliance WHO decreased from 80.9% (95% CI: 80.3–81.7) 62.5% 61.6–63.3). Results suggest levels substantially globally pandemic. Key stakeholders should consider strategies mitigate loss order preserve health