The Impact of Covid-19 on Healthy Habits and Psychological Well-Being of Chilean Female Handball Players

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on healthy habits in a sample made up of Chilean international elite female handball players. Participants filled in an online survey regarding their physical activity levels, eating attitudes, sleep quality and psychological well-being, twice. The survey was sent within four weeks after mobility restrictions were imposed in Chile, and 16 weeks later, just after the easing of those restrictions began. A total of 18 female handball players who were competing in senior, junior or juvenile categories were analyzed. The obtained data indicated that physical activity levels decreased significantly, as well as psychological well-being. No significant changes were observed in the eating attitudes and sleep quality, although a significant reduction of sleep problems was detected. Sociodemographic and sport-related characteristics did not seem to produce a differential effect on the variables assessed.

Resilience and Adaptation: Evaluating the Socioeconomic Impact of Covid-19 on Handball

“…The implementation of rigorous health and safety protocols has resulted in increased financial burdens on handball organisations. Costs associated with regular virus testing, sanitation measures, personal protective equipment and adjustments to venues in order to facilitate social distancing have placed considerable strain on the financial resources of clubs and event organisers (Kehl et al, 2021;Suárez-Iglesias et al, 2023). The investment in these preventive measures, while imperative for the safe resumption of sports activities, has led to an increase in operational costs without a corresponding increase in incomes, particularly given the restrictions on spectator attendance which traditionally contribute to match-day revenues (Gheorghe & Mereuță, 2020).…”