Physical Exercise During Covid-19 Pandemic: What Changed? – A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Abstract

In early 2020, a new disease took the stage in the world, named COVID-19. Because it is transmitted via droplets and direct contact, it quickly spread across countries, being declared pandemic. The best way to contain this disease is social isolation, which has led to changes in the community, such as closing non-essential places, for example, gyms and other indoor venues. Thus, maintaining the regular practice of physical exercise had to adapt to the pandemic context. Aim: To evaluate a possible influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the practice of physical exercise performed by university students in Minas Gerais. Methods: Cross-sectional observational study, involving 206 students from a private Higher Education Institution (HEI) in the capital of Minas Gerais. A virtual questionnaire was applied, with identification questions, aerobic activity practice and resistance training about the previous period and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: The sample had a mean age of 21.4 ± 3.9 years and a predominance of participants in the 2nd year of the course. When comparing the variables before and during the pandemic, they were significantly relevant, in aerobic exercise, a decrease in sports practice, an increase in the use of apps and practice at home. As for strength training, there were significant increases in the use of apps and home practice. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic caused changes in the profile of the practice of physical exercise by academics from a private HEI, preventing training in gyms and prioritizing the use of apps and training at home.