The importance of physical activity in COVID-19 times

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic altered activities of societies, forced closures at the national level in several countries, populations had to isolate themselves at home. Different studies have been initiated that allow us to understand the changes in behaviors related to physical activity and sedentary lifestyle in populations. The objective of this work was the analysis of the importance of physical activity in COVID-19 times. A systematic review was carried out and a questionnaire was applied to the population that performs physical activity in parks of Puebla City, Mexico. The results of the present systematic review suggest that engaging in even light physical activity during the pandemic can help eliminate some of the negative impacts on the health of populations. Since those who experience a decrease in physical activity also have higher levels of stress and anxiety. The data obtained from the questionnaire applied to the study population showed a participation of 54% men and 46% women, ages 14-70 years for men and 18-69 years for women. Regarding the time they perform physical activity, men reported 2-3 days (40.74%), 4-5 days (29.62%) and >5 days (29.62%), women 2-3 days (17.39%), 4-5 days (52.17%) and >5 days (30.43%). Regarding the time that men spend sitting <3 hours (14.81%), 4-8 hours (70.37%) and >8 hours (14.81%), women <3 hours (13.04%), 4-8 hours (65.21%) and >8 hours (21.73%). The variables of practiced time of physical activity, days a week, minutes a day and hours sitting between men and women showed no significant difference (P>0.05). It is recommended that populations get involved in physical activities in order to maintain a better quality of life and thus mitigate the phenomena associated with confinement due to the pandemic.