Social aspects of exercising physical activity by young people during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: To counter the COVIC-19 pandemic, many governments have introduced social distancing measures. While these restrictions have helped contain the virus, they have had an adverse impact on the mental and physical health of individuals, especially children and young people. Material and Methods: The aim of this work is to analyse the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on practising physical activity by students. The research was conducted in October 2020 on students of three universities in Rzeszów. CAWI technique was used for this purpose. In general, 511 respondents took part in the study, but 492 respondents gave full answers. The survey was comprised of 24 questions and included both closed questions (single and multiple choice). Results: Large majority of respondents felt the need to undertake and practise physical activity on a regular basis. The study demonstrates, for instance, whether the study group meets the requirements set out by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for young people with regard to physical activity. The data gathered demonstrated that the students’ physical activity levels decreased as a result of the pandemic. According to own research, less than 70% of students meet the WHO’s requirements regarding practising physical activity, that is minimum 30 minutes throughout a day, and the pandemic affected the way they practise it with regard to 2/3 of the respondents (61.38%). Conclusion: The study demonstrates the reduced physical activity levels among students during the COVID-19 pandemic. This fact highlights the need to promote active lifestyles in the case of pandemic-related restrictions, as higher activity levels are associated with better mental and physical health of young people.