Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the temporary closure of physical activity and sports facilities, and the generalized cancellation or postponement of sports events have a massive impact on social and economic development. In this study, we explored the feasibility of using tracking data from a football match to assess interpersonal contact between individuals by calculating two measures of respiratory exposure. The dynamic tracking positioning of all players and referees during one international football match was analyzed. For each individual, two measures of respiratory exposure were calculated, based on the 2 m interpersonal distance recommendations for contact tracing for COVID-19 control. Overall, individuals spent a median of 0:12 mm:ss (IQR = 0:45 mm:ss) exposed to interpersonal contact of fewer than 2 m from others. The highest value of exposure was observed between two players of opposing teams (6:35 mm:ss). The results suggest that tracking data can be used to assess respiratory exposure to interpersonal contact in team sports, such as football. The measures of exposure calculated can be used to the prompt identification of high-risk contacts of COVID-19 cases during a match or a training session, but also the risk stratification of different sports and physical activities.
Highlights
The COVID-19 epidemic disrupted the world of physical activity and sports
We explored the feasibility of using tracking data from a football match to assess interpersonal contact between individuals
The results suggest that tracking data can be used to assess respiratory exposure to interpersonal contact in team sports, such as football
Summary
The COVID-19 epidemic disrupted the world of physical activity and sports. Global social and physical distancing measures resulted in the closure of sports clubs, gyms and health clubs, stadiums, swimming pools, dancing and fitness studios, parks and playgrounds, and people were generally not Sensors 2020, 20, 6163; doi:10.3390/s20216163 www.mdpi.com/journal/sensorsSensors 2020, 20, 6163 allowed to engage in their regular individual or group sporting or physical activities outside of their homes [1].Under social confinement conditions, most individuals tend to be less physically active, have more extended periods in sedentary behaviors, irregular sleep patterns, and worse diets, which may result in body weight gain and loss of physical fitness [1,2]. Though physical activity is an essential determinant of health, and physical inactivity and sedentary behavior are major risk factors for non-communicable diseases [3], which are associated with more severe COVID-19 outcomes, including death [4]. For this purpose, proper management of noncommunicable diseases and their respective risk factors is vital to optimize public health outcomes and reduce the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals and society [5]. Many millions of jobs are at risk globally, for sports professionals and for those in related retail and sporting services industries connected to leagues and events [1]
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