COVID-19 pandemic: physical activity and health among adults

Nur Suffia Sulaiman^1*, Normawati Ahmad²

1. Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia, 1 Jalan Setia Murni U13/52, Section U13, Setia Alam, 40170 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia

2. Centre for Health Promotion Competency and Advanced Learning, Institute for Health Behavioural Research, National Institutes of Health, Ministry of Health Malaysia, 1 Jalan Setia Murni U13/52, Section U13, Setia Alam, 40170 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia

*Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CITATION: Sulaiman NS, Ahmad N. COVID-19 pandemic, physical activity and health among adults. International Medical Research Journal. 2024 Oct;10(1):64–6.  

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ABSTRACT

Strict public health measures were taken during the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce disease transmission such as lockdowns and closure of public areas. Being housebound and sedentary increases risks for obesity and non- communicable diseases. During the pandemic, some studies reported a general decrease in physical activity (PA), especially among males and young adults, while other studies reported a PA increase among women. Low PA levels were associated with poor mental health and well-being. Being sedentary also increases the risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms if infected. Maintenance of good PA levels should be stressed during a pandemic and social isolation.

KEYWORDS: Physical Activity, COVID-19, Pandemic, Stress, Non-communicable Disease