Recovery from COVID-19 in Adult Recreational Athletes: A Survey of American Triathletes

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction/Purpose Little is currently known regarding coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptomatology and return to exercise, training, and fitness after COVID-19 in adult recreational athletes. The purpose of this study was to determine which COVID-19-related symptoms are associated with prolonged return to sport in U.S. triathletes. Methods This was an online survey cohort study of USA Triathlon members (104 participants). Self-reported participant demographics, comorbid conditions, symptoms, and complications experienced with COVID-19 were assessed. Time required for the athlete to return to exercise, training, and normal fitness and whether symptoms worsened upon return to training were determined. Results Survey respondents were predominantly male (average age, 44.5 ± 1.9 yr) and healthy at baseline (91.0% had no risk factors for COVID-19 and 76.9% had no potential risk factors). After COVID-19, 50% of athletes returned to exercise in <1 wk, 30% returned to training in <1 wk, and 39% returned to normal fitness in <1 month. Thirty-five athletes (33.7%) felt worse upon return to training. Return to training took >14 d in more than 50% of athletes, and only 13% took >8 wk to return to normal fitness. Fever, shortness of breath, fatigue, and headache were all associated with prolonged return to exercise, training, and fitness (all P < 0.05). Conclusions Triathletes with COVID-19 who experienced fever, shortness of breath, headache, and fatigue should be counseled that they may have a more prolonged return to exercise, training, and normal fitness compared with those with less severe symptoms.