COVID-19 and its impacts on physical fitness: from harm reduction to health promotion

Abstract

Although social distancing policies were needed to mitigate the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), it also led to decreased physical activity levels simultaneously with increased sedentary behavior and change in dietary consumption. Since the pandemic-related impacts tend to remain for the next several months regardless of vaccination, how to deliver care to patients at hospital discharge, elderly individuals, or those with comorbidities and healthy subjects in social distancing and/or at remote working remain a challenge. Therefore, we reinforce the need for harm reduction actions and set goals for cardiorespiratory fitness, and promotion to a more active and healthier lifestyle. In Brazil, social inequalities and disbelief in social distancing policies and other health-related actions are additional challenges that must be addressed. Despite this, we argue that health must be prioritized even in a pandemic context, reinforcing the need for preventive strategies and public policies that include not only mitigation of the disease and vaccination, but also harm reduction strategies and encouragement of a healthy lifestyle. Finally, it is urgent to seek innovative strategies for people to practice their physical activities at home and in open environments, respecting all health recommendations in each region.