Physical activity of children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Review of research and recommendations for pedagogical practice

Abstract

The article aims to emphasize the importance of physical activity for the health and development of preschool and junior school children and adolescents as well as to present global data in this regard during the coronavirus pandemic. Worldwide data previously indicated a decline in physical activity among adolescents (mainly girls), and the COVID-19 pandemic and prolonged lockdown have further aggravated this crisis. The article cites the latest results of research conducted in various parts of the world, which indicate a drastic decline in the level of physical activity during a pandemic, which may become permanent in the future and become a new habit that is dangerous to health. Therefore, at various levels of government, measures are taken to counteract sedentary behaviour and its far-reaching consequences. The school and the family play a huge role in this context, as they should constantly make efforts and motivate children and adolescents to undertake systematic physical activity.