Exercise and COVID‐19: reasons individuals sought coaching support to assist them to increase physical activity during COVID‐19

Abstract

Objective: This paper explores the experiences of individuals who reported substantially decreasing physical activity (PA) as a result of COVID‐19 and sought coaching support to increase PA. Methods: A qualitative study using phenomenological analysis. Eight individuals participated in semi‐structured interviews that focused on their experiences of decreasing PA as a result of physical distancing measures, and why they sought PA coaching to overcome these issues. Responses were analysed thematically. Results: The participants reported markedly decreasing their PA following the enactment of physical distancing measures. The inability to subsequently engage in regular PA was a source of frustration for participants. Interview analysis revealed two themes that contributed to the understanding of why these individuals felt they needed PA coaching to increase PA; namely, a desire for both listening support and PA self‐regulation support. Conclusion: The individuals who decreased PA due to COVID‐19 desired an autonomy‐supportive counselling style, centred on listening support and self‐regulatory support. Online PA interventions were not highlighted as strategies to overcome PA barriers. Implications for public health: The effect of physical distancing measures on the determinants of overall PA is important, particularly if prolonged physical distancing is required.

Online Exercise Classes during the COVID-19 Related Lockdown in Germany: Use and Attitudes

“…This result is confirmed by qualitative studies in which participants report a challenge in finding the motivation to regularly exercise in lockdown, even if internet-based alternatives are available [34,35]. Barrett and colleagues also reported that some participants indeed tried OEC but were not able to keep with it because of motivational factors [35]. Over 60% of OEC users in our sample reported missing the interaction with other exercisers.…”

“…Almost 70% of OEC users in our survey strongly agreed or agreed that they had to motivate themselves harder when engaging in OEC than in regular ones. This result is confirmed by qualitative studies in which participants report a challenge in finding the motivation to regularly exercise in lockdown, even if internet-based alternatives are available [34,35]. Barrett and colleagues also reported that some participants indeed tried OEC but were not able to keep with it because of motivational factors [35].…”

“…These studies highlight the necessity of designing interventions for specific target groups and underline the relevance of providing support. This approach however cannot realistically be used at the population level, since with the self-organized use of OEC neither technical nor motivational support is available [35].…”

“…Taken together, OEC have certain advantages, such as low cost, time efficiency and flexibility, and might be regularly used by a small group of people. Lack of motivational support, interaction, instructor supervision and safety concerns however might make them less attractive as a regular exercise option for others [35,47]. Tailoring OEC to specific groups, such as the overweight, which currently tend not to use these, and providing feedback and support might improve uptake.…”

Discipline of Fitness Members in the Adaptation of New Habits in Buleleng Regency

“…The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an abrupt change in lifestyle for many people with restrictions, often leading to a decrease in physical activity (PA), and thus contributing to a negative perception of health status [11]. Reference [12] wrote in their article, the opportunity for physical activity in the Australian State of Victoria during the COVID-19 pandemic is strictly limited, physical fitness centers/gyms, swimming pools and community-based sports centers are closed. Furthermore reference [12] state that the inability of the society to be actively involved in routine physical activities is a source of public frustration.…”