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

Abstract

Background: Many governments have restricted public life during the COVID-19 pandemic. Related measures, among others, include closures of sports facilities and gyms. As regular movement is essential for immune function, bodily health and mental wellbeing, this study examined the effect of pandemic-related confinements on global physical activity (PA) levels. Methods: A multinational survey was performed in 14 countries. To quantify self-reported PA, the times spent in moderate and vigorous physical activities (MVPA) as well as in vigorous physical activities only (VPA) were assessed by means of the Nordic Physical Activity Questionnaire (short-form). Data were obtained for leisure and occupational PA pre and during restrictions of public life. Compliance with PA guidelines was calculated based on the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO). To estimate the risk of non-response bias, wave analyses were performed. Findings: A population of n=13,503 respondents (39±15 years, 59% females) were surveyed without indication of non-response bias. Compared to pre-restrictions, overall self-reported PA decreased by 41% (MVPA) and 42·2 % (VPA) during restrictions. Reductions were higher for occupational vs. leisure time, young and old vs. middle-aged persons, previously more active vs. less active individuals, but similar between men and women. Compared to pre-pandemic, compliance with WHO guidelines decreased from 81·0% to 62·5%. Interpretation: Results suggest PA levels have substantially decreased globally during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key stakeholders should consider strategies to mitigate loss in PA in order to preserve health during the pandemic and in future crises. Funding Statement: There was no external funding. Declaration of Interests: The authors declare there is no conflict of interest. Ethics Approval Statement: Ethics approval was obtained in each involved country (Australia, Austria, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, South Africa, Singapore, Switzerland, Spain, USA). All participants provided digital informed consent.