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28 pages, 802 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Level of Physical Activity, Sleep Quality and Use of Personal Protective Equipment of Students at Wroclaw Medical University during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Aureliusz Andrzej Kosendiak, Bartosz Adamczak, Sylwiusz Kontek, Zofia Kuźnik, Michał Roman, Michał Gostkowski and Arkadiusz Niedziółka

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(3), 2406; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20032406 - 29 Jan 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2099

Abstract

The study was conducted in October 2020 and March 2021 among Wroclaw Medical University students of different years and faculties. The objective of the study was to establish the relationship between some determinants, such as gender and the levels of physical activity, and [...] Read more.

The study was conducted in October 2020 and March 2021 among Wroclaw Medical University students of different years and faculties. The objective of the study was to establish the relationship between some determinants, such as gender and the levels of physical activity, and the quality of sleep of medical students during the pandemic. Ultimately, 696 responses from October and 652 from March were included. To determine the level of physical activity, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used, and for sleep quality, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) was used. The findings pointed to a higher Total MET m/w (metabolic equivalent of task in minutes a week) in men compared to women in both study periods (2020: 1845.8 to 1542.5, p = 0.009; 2021: 2040.7 to 1826.6, p = 0.025). This was mainly due to a higher Vigorous Exercises MET m/w in men (2020: 837.3 to 635.8, p = 0.008; 2021: 773.3 to 490.3, p = 0.0006). Moreover, women had a lower quality of sleep resulting from problems in Habitual Sleep Efficiency, Sleep Disturbances, and Daytime Dysfunctions. An adequate level of physical activity and a good night’s rest are the fundaments of health; therefore, it is necessary to determine the causes of their deficiencies in order that we can counteract them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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14 pages, 361 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between the Health Belief Model, Exercise, and Nutrition Behaviors during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Keagan Kiely, William A. Mase, Andrew R. Hansen and Jessica Schwind

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 15516; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192315516 - 23 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2217

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected our nation’s health further than the infection it causes. Physical activity levels and dietary intake have suffered while individuals grapple with the changes in behavior to reduce viral transmission. With unique nuances regarding the access to physical [...] Read more.

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected our nation’s health further than the infection it causes. Physical activity levels and dietary intake have suffered while individuals grapple with the changes in behavior to reduce viral transmission. With unique nuances regarding the access to physical activity and nutrition during the pandemic, the constructs of Health Belief Model (HBM) may present themselves differently in nutrition and exercise behaviors compared to precautions implemented to reduce viral transmission studied in previous research. The purpose of this study was to investigate the extent of exercise and nutritional behavior change during the COVID-19 pandemic and explain the reason for and extent of this change using HBM constructs (perceived susceptibility, severity, benefit of action, and barriers to action). Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design to collect 206 surveys. This survey collected information on self-reported exercise and nutrition changes during the pandemic and self-reported levels of the HBM constructs. Results: Findings showed individuals with medium or high exercise behavior change had greater odds of increased HBM score than individuals with little to no exercise behavior change (OR = 1.117, 95% CI: 1.020–1.223, SE: 0.0464, p = 0.0175). There was no association between nutritional behavior change and HBM score (OR = 1.011, 95% CI: 0.895–1.142, p = 08646). Conclusion: Individuals who reported a more drastic change in either exercise had greater odds of increased feelings of perceived susceptibility and severity related to COVID-19 and decreased perceived benefits and increased barriers to exercise. This relationship was not found regarding nutrition behavior change. These results encourage public health practitioners to understand how an individual’s perceived feelings about a threat may affect exercise and nutritional behaviors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

10 pages, 1399 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Wearing Facemasks during Vigorous Exercise in the Aspect of Cardiopulmonary Response, In-Mask Environment, and Subject Discomfort

by Juntaek Hong, Juahn Byun, Joong-on Choi, Dain Shim and Dong-wook Rha

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14106; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114106 - 28 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1515

Abstract

Non-pharmaceutical intervention such as wearing a mask during the pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 is one of the most important ways to prevent the spread of the virus. However, despite high effectiveness and easy to access, the biggest problem is ‘discomfort’. The purpose of this [...] Read more.

Non-pharmaceutical intervention such as wearing a mask during the pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 is one of the most important ways to prevent the spread of the virus. However, despite high effectiveness and easy to access, the biggest problem is ‘discomfort’. The purpose of this study was to measure the changes of cardiopulmonary response and related factors affecting breathing discomfort when wearing a mask during vigorous exercise. Fifteen healthy male adults participated in this study. The experimental protocol consisted of three conditions: no mask; KF-94 mask; and sports mask. Each condition consisted of three stages: stage I, 2 m/s on even level; stage II, 2 m/s with 5° inclination; and stage III, 3 m/s on even level. Oxygen saturation (SaO₂) and heart rate (HR), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO₂), energy expenditure index (EEI), in-mask temperature, humidity, and a five-point scale questionnaire to evaluate subjective discomfort were measured. The results show that there was a significantly higher discomfort score in mask conditions compared with no mask (p < 0.05) and only pCO₂ change significantly related to subjective discomfort during exercise (p < 0.05). Moreover, the pCO₂ washout was significantly disturbed when wearing a sports mask in stages 2 and 3, which was related to wearer subjective discomfort Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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15 pages, 948 KiB

Open AccessArticle

When You Can’t Play Sports: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Motivational and Emotional Experiences in Coach-Athlete Dyads

by Marieke Fonteyn and Tom Loeys

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 13944; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192113944 - 27 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1230

Abstract

(1) Background: This study aimed to assess the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on athletes’ and coaches’ experiences. Following the Dualistic Model of Passion and the Self-determination Theory, the objectives of this study were to investigate whether the COVID-19 pandemic and its restrictions [...] Read more.

(1) Background: This study aimed to assess the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on athletes’ and coaches’ experiences. Following the Dualistic Model of Passion and the Self-determination Theory, the objectives of this study were to investigate whether the COVID-19 pandemic and its restrictions affected athletes’ and coaches’ passion experiences, emotional experiences and basic psychological needs while engaging in their sport activities. Furthermore, the relationship between passion and emotional experiences as well as between passion and the basic psychological needs were explored; (2) Methods: 87 coach-athlete dyads, active at the recreational or competitive level in an individual sport, participated in the study. Using a cross-sectional dyadic design, athletes and coaches reported separately on their passion experience, emotional experiences and basic psychological needs in the previous two weeks; (3) Results: In total, 30 dyads were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, while 57 were not. Athletes’ obsessive passion as well coaches’ negative affect were larger in impacted dyads, while athletes’ positive affect was lower in that group compared to the not-impacted group. Moderated Actor–Partner Interdependence Models revealed that coaches’ obsessive passion was more strongly related to their negative affect in coach–athlete dyads that were not impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic than in dyads that were impacted. Furthermore, the harmonious passion of coaches was more strongly associated with athletes’ need satisfaction and need frustration in impacted dyads, while also the athletes’ harmonious passion in impacted dyads was more strongly associated with coaches’ need satisfaction; (4) Conclusions: Less positive outcomes and more negative outcomes were observed in both athletes and coaches that were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, the COVID-19 pandemic may have suppressed the negative effects of coaches’ obsessive passion on their negative affect, but strengthened the positive impact of coaches’ harmonious passion on the athletes’ need satisfaction and vice versa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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14 pages, 375 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19: Physical Activity Behavior Change among Athletes in Québec (Canada)

by Pascale Marceau and Frank Pons

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 13853; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192113853 - 25 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1234

Abstract

The context of the COVID-19 pandemic imposed unprecedented restrictions. Within Canada, which is among the most stringent countries in terms of sanitary rules, Québec was among the provinces that imposed the strictest sanitary measures. The impacts of some measures were felt the most [...] Read more.

The context of the COVID-19 pandemic imposed unprecedented restrictions. Within Canada, which is among the most stringent countries in terms of sanitary rules, Québec was among the provinces that imposed the strictest sanitary measures. The impacts of some measures were felt the most among athletes since they made it difficult, if not impossible, to practice their sports. This article therefore aimed to (1) evaluate the impact of the pandemic on the athletes’ overall level of physical activity, (2) look at the relationship between overall level of physical activity and the level of psychological well-being and (3) analyze post-pandemic physical activity intentions. For this purpose, an online survey was conducted among 1456 athletes aged 3 to 61 years old. The results of this study show that the limitations imposed during the pandemic led to half of athletes decreasing their overall level of physical activity, leading to a deterioration in their psychological well-being (F(2.1438) = 54.707, p < 0.001). The current research provided further evidence that it is essential to implement strategies that favor practicing physical activities in a pandemic context. Furthermore, since almost all individuals who increased their practice of wheeled sports during the pandemic intend to continue after the pandemic, this is a great opportunity to promote active transportation among athletes by ensuring that the perception of the benefits associated with it does not decrease with time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

8 pages, 336 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Swimming at the Time of COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study among Young Italian Competitive Athletes

by Francesca Gallè, Carmela Protano, Matteo Zaccarin, Stefano Zanni, Federica Valeriani, Giorgio Liguori, Vincenzo Romano Spica and Matteo Vitali

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13236; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013236 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1180

Abstract

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, several restriction measures were imposed to control the virus transmission, with important repercussions on different sectors, including sport. This study aimed to explore the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Italian competitive swimmers by analyzing how [...] Read more.

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, several restriction measures were imposed to control the virus transmission, with important repercussions on different sectors, including sport. This study aimed to explore the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Italian competitive swimmers by analyzing how the disease and the restriction measures affected their training. In total, 396 competitive swimmers (mean age 16.0 ± 3.2 years) participated. A questionnaire was used to collect their general information, to assess whether they had had COVID-19 and the number of training days lost due to the disease or to the closure of swimming facilities, and the possible alternative training adopted. Twenty-four (6.1%) participants had had COVID-19 and lost, on average, 32 training days. The closure of facilities caused an interruption in swimming training for about 18% of the participants. The majority of these continued their training, mainly through home-based exercise, but reduced their weekly training time (-8 median hours/week). A positive association was found between regularly adopted weekly training volume and that assumed during pandemic closure (OR 9.433, CI95% 1.644–54.137, p = 0.012), suggesting that the previous level of engagement in sport can represent a predictor of exercise maintenance in challenging situations such as a pandemic. Further studies are needed to identify personal, environmental, and social resources that can help individuals to counteract the negative effects of restriction measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

22 pages, 4027 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multivariate Analysis on Physical Activity, Emotional and Health Status of University Students Caused by COVID-19 Confinement

by Bethy Merchán-Sanmartín, Mayra Brocel-Bajaña, Johny Pambabay-Calero, Sergio Bauz-Olvera, Néstor Montalván-Burbano, Maribel Aguilar-Aguilar and Paúl Carrión-Mero

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11016; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711016 - 03 Sep 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2928

Abstract

Confinement as a result of COVID-19 had a strong impact around the world and restricted mobility. The university community started to take routine classes in a virtual and sedentary way, causing negative effects on their health and habits. The objective of this research [...] Read more.

Confinement as a result of COVID-19 had a strong impact around the world and restricted mobility. The university community started to take routine classes in a virtual and sedentary way, causing negative effects on their health and habits. The objective of this research is to analyze the impact of confinement through surveys of students and interviews with university professors, in order to study the effects of confinement on physical activity, emotional state, and health. The methodology was as follows: (i) preliminary data; (ii) survey development, interviews, and information collection; (iii) data processing and multivariate presentation of the results, using multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) and multiple factor analysis (MFA). The results of 375 respondents show that there is a low level of physical activity (<300 METs, 49.6%), where women register sedentary behavior (73%). Emotionally, most of them show feeling bored. Some express anxiety, depression, discomfort, and frustration. In terms of health, there are rheumatic, circulatory, respiratory, and other diseases related to obesity. It is essential to create programs that promote physical exercise to reduce the consequences of sedentary lifestyles on the physical, social, and mental health of university students, especially engineering students, who experienced greater effects of confinement than those studying nutrition and social sciences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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11 pages, 385 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chinese College Students’ Physical-Exercise Behavior, Negative Emotions, and Their Correlation during the COVID-19 Outbreak

by Shan-Shan Han, Bo Li, You-Zhi Ke, Guang-Xu Wang, Shu-Qiao Meng, Ya-Xing Li, Zhong-Lei Cui and Wen-Xia Tong

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10344; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610344 - 19 Aug 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2699

Abstract

Background: In the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, the level of college students’ physical exercise, the detection rate of negative emotions, and their correlation should attract extensive attention. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the correlation between college students’ physical exercise and negative [...] Read more.

Background: In the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, the level of college students’ physical exercise, the detection rate of negative emotions, and their correlation should attract extensive attention. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the correlation between college students’ physical exercise and negative emotions. Methods: Data were collected via a web-based cross-sectional survey. A questionnaire survey was conducted among 3118 college students from five universities in Shanghai in March 2022. In addition to sociodemographic information, measures included Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3) and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS). The chi-squared test and logistic regression were used to analyze the differences and test the relative risk of negative emotions caused by different amounts of physical exercise. Results: Most students (66.1%) performed a small amount of physical exercise. Male students’ physical-exercise level was higher than female students’, and the detection rate of negative emotions was lower than that of female students. Moderate and low physical-exercise levels were associated with a higher risk of depression (beta of 0.289 and 0.345, respectively) and anxiety (beta of 0.301 and 0.418) symptoms than high physical-exercise level. Conclusions: The anxiety symptoms of college students were significant during the COVID-19 pandemic period. The physical-exercise behavior of college students was closely related to negative emotions, and the weakening of physical-exercise behavior was one of the factors that induced negative emotions in college students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

11 pages, 359 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of COVID-19 on Physical Activity and Lifestyles in Post-Confinement Sports Science Undergraduates

by Ismael García-Campanario, Luc E. Vanlinthout, Rocío Toro, Alipio Mangas and Carolina Lagares-Franco

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(15), 9115; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159115 - 26 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1901

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess whether the infection by SARS-CoV-2 has significantly influenced physical activity, diet, alcohol, and drug consumption habits, as well as the quality of life of students of the bachelor’s degree in Physical Activity and Sports Sciences. [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to assess whether the infection by SARS-CoV-2 has significantly influenced physical activity, diet, alcohol, and drug consumption habits, as well as the quality of life of students of the bachelor’s degree in Physical Activity and Sports Sciences. For this purpose, an online survey was conducted, which included socio-demographic questions related to the COVID-19 disease. Physical activity was analyzed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), adherence to the Mediterranean diet using the PREDIMED questionnaire, alcohol consumption using the AUDIT questionnaire, and drug consumption using the DAST-10 questionnaire. Health-related quality of life was analyzed with the SF-12 questionnaire. Our results reveal that those who engaged in either vigorous physical activity or, on the contrary, very low-intensity physical activity, were affected by the SARS-CoV-2 disease, which reduced the average weekly time they spent on their type of activity. However, those who previously performed moderate activities have managed to stay on the same fitness level despite having suffered from SARS-CoV-2 disease (p = 0.433). In conclusion, general health is affected by suffering from the COVID-19 disease, inadequate eating habits, substance use, and the performance of vigorous or very low-intensity of physical activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

12 pages, 819 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Sport Activity Shut down during the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults: Was It Worthwhile?

by Sara Raimondi, Giulio Cammarata, Giovanna Testa, Federica Bellerba, Federica Galli, Patrizia Gnagnarella, Maria Luisa Iannuzzo, Dorotea Ricci, Alessandro Sartorio, Clementina Sasso, Gabriella Pravettoni and Sara Gandini

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(13), 7908; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19137908 - 28 Jun 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2737

Abstract

We conducted a national retrospective survey of 1764 athletes aged ≤25 years to investigate the benefit–risk balance of sport closure during the COVID-19 pandemic peaks in Italy. Univariate and multivariable analyses were carried out to investigate the association between sport practice during the [...] Read more.

We conducted a national retrospective survey of 1764 athletes aged ≤25 years to investigate the benefit–risk balance of sport closure during the COVID-19 pandemic peaks in Italy. Univariate and multivariable analyses were carried out to investigate the association between sport practice during the study period and (1) the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in athletes and their families and (2) body mass index (BMI) change, and adherence to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for physical activity. The percentage of subjects with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test was similar in those participating and not taking part into sport activities (11% vs. 12%, respectively, p = 0.31). Restricting the analysis to subjects who practiced sports within an organized sport society/center, the risk of SARS-CoV-2 positivity was reduced for athletes who had never stopped their training (odds ratio (OR); 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.62; 0.41–0.93). On the other side, responders who had stopped sport activity showed a 1% increase in BMI. Adherence to WHO guidelines for physical activity was significantly higher for athletes who had continued sport activities. In conclusion, sport closure and limitations had an important negative impact on the overall health of young athletes, being also not effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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14 pages, 974 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Fitness of Chinese Primary School Students across the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak: A Retrospective Repeated Cross-Sectional Study

by Wei-Ning Hu, Dong-Yue Li, Wing-Kai Lam, Yi Wang, Duo Wai-Chi Wong and James Chung-Wai Cheung

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(13), 7870; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19137870 - 27 Jun 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2547

Abstract

Social distancing measures against COVID-19 imposed restrictions on students that may have affected their physical health and fitness. The objective of this study was to investigate the change in physical fitness of primary school students across the coronavirus outbreaks from 2019 to 2021. [...] Read more.

Social distancing measures against COVID-19 imposed restrictions on students that may have affected their physical health and fitness. The objective of this study was to investigate the change in physical fitness of primary school students across the coronavirus outbreaks from 2019 to 2021. This was a retrospective repeated cross-sectional study. We obtained the annual physical and fitness assessment data measured every November for all students at the same primary school in Guangzhou, China. There was a total of 6371 observations in the dataset for three years. The physical fitness of the students was evaluated with an overall physical fitness score, body mass index (BMI), lung vital capacity, physical flexibility (via a sit-and-reach test) and sports task performances (sprint, shuttle run, rope-jumping, and sit-up). Generalised estimating equations were used to determine any significant changes from 2019 to 2021, adjusted for confounders. After the COVID-19 outbreak in 2021, there was a significant elevation in BMI of 0.64 kg/m² in 2020 and 0.39 kg/m² in 2021 (p < 0.001). The overall physical fitness score was significantly increased by 2.1 and 4.1 points, respectively, in 2020 and 2021 (p < 0.001). Lung vital capacity and rope-jumping performance were significantly improved in both 2020 and 2021 compared with 2019, and sit-up performance was marginally significantly improved in 2020 and significantly improved in 2021. However, students demonstrated poorer flexibility and sprint and shuttle run performance in 2021 compared with 2019. A health promotion programme during and after COVID-19, including online physical education classes, television broadcasts, and a rope-jumping campaign, could account for these positive outcomes, along with the ease of administering rope-jumping and sit-ups at home. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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17 pages, 773 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lifestyle, Physical Activity and Dietary Habits of Medical Students of Wroclaw Medical University during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Aureliusz Andrzej Kosendiak, Michał Piotr Wysocki and Paweł Piotr Krysiński

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(12), 7507; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19127507 - 19 Jun 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3095

Abstract

The new disease COVID-19, induced by SARS-CoV-2, causes acute respiratory infection. Many countries, including Poland, began to set a variety of different restrictions to reduce the spread of the virus. Most students had problems with online lessons. The study was conducted among second [...] Read more.

The new disease COVID-19, induced by SARS-CoV-2, causes acute respiratory infection. Many countries, including Poland, began to set a variety of different restrictions to reduce the spread of the virus. Most students had problems with online lessons. The study was conducted among second year medicine students of the Medical University of Wroclaw, and after the entire process of verification 200 respondents were accepted. The research consisted of completing the same anonymous online questionnaires twice in March and October 2020. This finally allowed for a critical assessment of the impact of the pandemic and its restrictions on the students’ daily lives. During the online classes, low levels of physical activity persisted (p = 0.718), whereas time spent sitting increased (p < 0.001). Despite positive changes in declared snacking (p = 0.061), we observed significant drops in the index of healthy diet (p = 0.001) and nutritional knowledge (p < 0.001) as well as an increase in the consumption of fast-food (p < 0.001) and energy drinks (p = 0.019). Reduced nutritional knowledge can cause a decrease in attention to healthy food preparation and much more frequent consumption of fast-food. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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13 pages, 820 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimated Oxygen Consumption with the Abbreviated Method and Its Association with Vaccination and PCR Tests for COVID-19 from Socio-Demographic, Anthropometric, Lifestyle, and Morbidity Outcomes in Chilean Adults

by Jaime Vásquez-Gómez, César Faúndez-Casanova, Ricardo Souza de Carvalho, Franklin Castillo-Retamal, Pedro Valenzuela Reyes, Yeny Concha-Cisternas, Pablo Luna-Villouta, Cristian Álvarez, Andrés Godoy-Cumillaf, Claudio Hernández-Mosqueira, Igor Cigarroa, Alex Garrido-Méndez, Carlos Matus-Castillo, Marcelo Castillo-Retamal and Ivana Leao Ribeiro

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(11), 6856; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116856 - 03 Jun 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2299

Abstract

COVID-19 causes cardiovascular and lung problems that can be aggravated by confinement, but the practice of physical activity (PA) could lessen these effects. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of maximum oxygen consumption (

\dot{V}

O₂max) [...] Read more.

COVID-19 causes cardiovascular and lung problems that can be aggravated by confinement, but the practice of physical activity (PA) could lessen these effects. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of maximum oxygen consumption (

\dot{V}

O₂max) with vaccination and PCR tests in apparently healthy Chilean adults. An observational and cross-sectional study was performed, in which 557 people from south-central Chile participated, who answered an online questionnaire on the control of COVID-19, demographic data, lifestyles, and diagnosis of non-communicable diseases.

\dot{V}

O₂max was estimated with an abbreviated method. With respect to the unvaccinated, those who received the first (OR:0.52 [CI:0.29;0.95], p = 0.019) and second vaccine (OR:0.33 [CI:0.18;0.59], p = 0.0001) were less likely to have an increased

\dot{V}

O₂max. The first vaccine was inversely associated with

\dot{V}

O₂max (mL/kg/min) (β:−1.68 [CI:−3.06; −0.3], p = 0.017), adjusted for BMI (β:−1.37 [CI:−2.71; −0.03], p = 0.044) and by demographic variables (β:−1.82 [CI:−3.18; −0.46], p = 0.009); similarly occur for the second vaccine (β: between −2.54 and −3.44, p < 0.001) on models with and without adjustment. Having taken a PCR test was not significantly associated with

\dot{V}

O₂max (mL/kg/min). It is concluded that vaccination significantly decreased

\dot{V}

O₂max, although it did not indicate cause and effect. There is little evidence of this interaction, although the results suggest an association, since

\dot{V}

O₂max could prevent and attenuate the contagion symptoms and effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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9 pages, 2701 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consequences of the SARS-CoV-2 Infection on Anaerobic Performances in Young Elite Soccer Players

by Marc Dauty, Jérôme Grondin, Pauline Daley, Bastien Louguet, Pierre Menu and Alban Fouasson-Chailloux

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(11), 6418; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116418 - 25 May 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1961

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic required local confinement measures reducing sport practice with possible consequences on the athletes’ performances. Furthermore, anaerobic detraining was underestimated and poorly known in adolescents. This article aimed to assess the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection and 1-month COVID-19 confinement on jump [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic required local confinement measures reducing sport practice with possible consequences on the athletes’ performances. Furthermore, anaerobic detraining was underestimated and poorly known in adolescents. This article aimed to assess the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection and 1-month COVID-19 confinement on jump testing in young elite soccer players despite a 1-month multimodal training program followed by a 1-month soccer retraining period. Thirty-one elite soccer players aged 14 were included; 16 were infected by the SARS-CoV-2 and compared with 15 non-infected elite soccer players before and after 1 month of COVID-19 confinement, and after 1 month of a soccer retraining period. Squat jumps (SJ), countermovement jumps with (CMJs) and without arm swinging (CMJ) and multiple consecutive jumps (stiffness) were used to explore the anaerobic performances. Analysis of variance for repeated measures was used to compare the positive and negative SARS-CoV-2 groups, taking into account the confinement period (low training) and the retraining soccer period. The jump tests were not altered in the positive SARS-CoV-2 group compared to the negative SARS-CoV-2 group after confinement (SJ: 31.6 ± 5.6 vs. 32.7 ± 3.7; CMJ: 34.1 ± 6.9 vs. 34.2 ± 2.6; CMJs: 38.6 ± 6.8 vs. 40.3 ± 3.9; stiffness: 28.5 ± 4.3 vs. 29.1 ± 3.7) and at 1 month of this period (SJ: 33.8 ± 5.5 vs. 36.2 ± 4.6; CMJ: 34.7 ± 5.5 vs. 36.4 ± 3.5; CMJs: 40.4 ± 6.7 vs. 42.7 ± 5.5; stiffness: 32.6 ± 4.7 vs. 34.0 ± 4.3). The SARS-CoV-2 infection had no consequence on anaerobic performances assessed by jump tests in adolescent soccer players. The adolescents’ growth could explain the absence of alteration of jump performances during the COVID-19 confinement. These results can be useful to manage the recovery of the anaerobic fitness after SARS-CoV-2 infection occurring in adolescent athletes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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11 pages, 516 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of a Park-Based Physical Activity Intervention on Psychological Wellbeing at the Time of COVID-19

by Stefania Toselli, Laura Bragonzoni, Alessia Grigoletto, Alice Masini, Sofia Marini, Giuseppe Barone, Erika Pinelli, Raffaele Zinno, Mario Mauro, Pietro Loro Pilone, Sonia Arduini, Simona Galli, Mauro Vitiello, Bruno Vicentini, Giorgia Boldrini, Muriel Assunta Musti, Paolo Pandolfi, Maurizio Liberti, Gerardo Astorino, Pasqualino Maietta Latessa and Laura Dallolio Show full author list Hide full author list

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(10), 6028; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19106028 - 16 May 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2544

Abstract

Practicing regular physical activity in green spaces has been invocated as a promising strategy for improving wellbeing in urban settings. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of a structured park-based physical activity intervention, the “Moving Parks” project, on citizens’ [...] Read more.

Practicing regular physical activity in green spaces has been invocated as a promising strategy for improving wellbeing in urban settings. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of a structured park-based physical activity intervention, the “Moving Parks” project, on citizens’ wellbeing at the time of COVID-19. The intervention was carried out in six public parks in Bologna (Italy) and administered by qualified instructors (from May 2021 to September 2021). The Psychological General Well Being Index short form questionnaire was administered before and after the three months of outdoor activities. A total of 328 participants completed the questionnaire at the beginning and at the end of the project. In September 2021, all psychosocial domains of the questionnaire (anxiety, depressed mood, self-control, positive well-being, vitality energy, and vitality-tiredness) significantly improved in the female sample (p value < 0.01) and only the last two in the male sample (p value < 0.05). The “Moving Parks” project seems to be able to improve citizens’ psychological wellbeing, particularly in women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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10 pages, 351 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19 and Attendance Demand for Professional Sport in Japan: A Multilevel Analysis of Repeated Cross-Sectional National Data during the Pandemic

by Hiroaki Funahashi, Shintaro Sato and Takuya Furukawa

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(9), 5318; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19095318 - 27 Apr 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1802

Abstract

In the current investigation, we assess the effect of COVID-19 on intention-based spectator demand for professional sports in Japan captured by eight, monthly repeated cross-sectional national surveys from May to December 2020 (n = 20,121). We regress spectator demand on individual (e.g., [...] Read more.

In the current investigation, we assess the effect of COVID-19 on intention-based spectator demand for professional sports in Japan captured by eight, monthly repeated cross-sectional national surveys from May to December 2020 (n = 20,121). We regress spectator demand on individual (e.g., gender), prefecture-wave (e.g., COVID-19 infection status), and prefecture-level factors (i.e., with or without quality professional teams). The results of multilevel logistic regression demonstrate that individual (i.e., male, younger, full-time employment, and with children status) and prefecture-level team factors (i.e., with teams) were associated with intention-based spectator demand. Nevertheless, COVID-19-related factors were found to be unrelated to spectator demand. The findings imply that sports fans are likely to return to the stadium once behavioral restrictions are lifted. The current research provided further evidence that individual factors and team quality serve as influential antecedents of spectator demand in the context of the COVID-19 epidemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

15 pages, 587 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Athletes and Coaches through the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative View of Goal Management

by Sergio Costa, Eugenio De Gregorio, Lisa Zurzolo, Giampaolo Santi, Edoardo Giorgio Ciofi, Francesco Di Gruttola, Luana Morgilli, Cristina Montesano, Francesca Cavallerio, Maurizio Bertollo and Selenia di Fronso

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(9), 5085; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19095085 - 21 Apr 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3759

Abstract

Since the end of 2019 and throughout 2020, the world has been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The sports world suddenly had to deal with a massive reorganization of events with important implications for the physical and psychological preparation of athletes and coaches. [...] Read more.

Since the end of 2019 and throughout 2020, the world has been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The sports world suddenly had to deal with a massive reorganization of events with important implications for the physical and psychological preparation of athletes and coaches. The purpose of this study was to explore how these changes impacted coaches’ and athletes’ goal-setting strategies and their experience of goal adjustment. As part of a wider mixed-method project involving 2162 coaches and 1354 athletes, an online qualitative survey was used, and data collected were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Findings highlighted three overarching themes, in response to goal adjustment: “Moving on toward new goals”, “Letting go of goals”, and “Trying to hold on”, with several themes and sub-themes identifying different nuances of athletes’ and coaches’ experiences. The implications of such findings for the mental preparation of high-level athletes are discussed in two ways. Firstly, in light of existing literature on goal setting from an applied perspective; secondly, in the broader perspective of the sports culture and the application of our themes to other challenging moments that sports professionals might encounter. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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11 pages, 518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19 Confinement Effects on Game Actions during Competition Restart in Professional Soccer Players

by Abraham García-Aliaga, Moisés Marquina, Ignacio Refoyo Román, Diego Muriarte Solana, Juan A. Piñero Madrona, Roberto López del Campo, Fabio Nevado Garrosa and Daniel Mon-López

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(7), 4252; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19074252 - 02 Apr 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1927

Abstract

The main objective of the present study was to compare high-intensity actions in a week of three matches before and after the COVID-19 lockdown. The observational methodology was used. This study analysed 551 professional soccer players from 22 different Spanish teams (LaLiga Smartbank [...] Read more.

The main objective of the present study was to compare high-intensity actions in a week of three matches before and after the COVID-19 lockdown. The observational methodology was used. This study analysed 551 professional soccer players from 22 different Spanish teams (LaLiga Smartbank 2019–2020) by a multi-camera tracking system and associated software (Mediacoach^®, Spain). Variables of distances per minute and totals, travelled at High Intensity (HIR), Very High Intensity (VHIR), Sprint (HSR), player’s maximum speed, average speed, and the number of efforts in VHIR and HSR were analysed in the first and second half of the games, the full match, as well as in relation to the playing position. Players who participated in the same number of matches pre- and post-COVID-19 showed an increase in the total minutes played, p < 0.05, and small decreases in game actions, p < 0.05, with an effect size between 0.21 and 0.45, while players who participated in different number of matches pre- and post-COVID-19 showed a performance decrease, p < 0.05, with a size effect between 0.13 and 0.51; this was evident, particularly, for midfielders, p < 0.05, with a size effect between 0.39 and 0.75. The results seem to show that the playing intensity after COVID-19 confinement did not lead to large performance losses, except for midfielders who were the most involved players and showed a higher decrease in performance. The main findings of this study could provide insight to football coaches for rotations in starting line-ups and game substitutions, so as not to affect the intensity levels of the competitions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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14 pages, 368 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Levels of Physical Activity and Psychological Well-Being in Non-Athletes and Martial Art Athletes during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Armando Monterrosa Quintero, Ana Rita Echeverri Rios, Juan Pedro Fuentes-Garcia and Juan Carlos Gonzalez Sanchez

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(7), 4004; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19074004 - 28 Mar 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3074

Abstract

Background: The objectives of this study were to identify which of the sociodemographic variables affected psychological well-being in two populations that differed in their sports practice at the end of the COVID-19 lockdown in Colombia. Methods: The study was conducted through an online [...] Read more.

Background: The objectives of this study were to identify which of the sociodemographic variables affected psychological well-being in two populations that differed in their sports practice at the end of the COVID-19 lockdown in Colombia. Methods: The study was conducted through an online survey using the IPAQ-S and PGWBI-S questionnaires six months after the first SARS-CoV-2 lockdown, between 8 and 22 September 2020 in Colombia. The total number of study participants was 582, subdivided into two groups: (i) non-athlete university population (NA) without constant practice in physical activity or sports training (n = 470); and (ii) martial arts athletes (n = 122) with a sports career (A), 7.4 ± 3.4 years of experience, at different levels (advanced belts and black belts). Results: Sports practice, normal BMI levels and high levels of physical activity translated into absence of distress (ND) in the psychological well-being of populations. The variance between the factors could be explained by the general health dimension (2.4% population; 4.2% sex; 12% physical activity; 2.6% age). A moderate correlation between vitality and MET was found (r = 0.33; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The practice of a sport such as martial arts, normal body mass index and high levels of physical activity were factors that positively reduced levels of distress, translated into better psychological well-being in populations, and the general health dimension presented important contributions to psychological well-being. Intervention plans must be carried out, especially in populations that do not practice physical activity—mainly female and those under 40 years of age. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

17 pages, 1473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction and Analysis of Tokyo Olympic Games Swimming Results: Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Swimmers’ Performance

by Sabrina Demarie, Emanuele Chirico and Christel Galvani

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(4), 2110; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19042110 - 13 Feb 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4397

Abstract

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the 2019–2020 season, swimming competitions and training have been limited leading to a setback in performances. The study analyzed if, during the subsequent season, swimmers’ have been able to regain the lost performance. Swimming time trends were [...] Read more.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in the 2019–2020 season, swimming competitions and training have been limited leading to a setback in performances. The study analyzed if, during the subsequent season, swimmers’ have been able to regain the lost performance. Swimming time trends were analyzed comparing Tokyo with Rio Olympics and with mathematically predicted results. The gap between the gold medalist and the last finalist, and the differences between men and women have also been considered. Swimming competition results of females and males, in 100 m and 200 m Freestyle and Backstroke, were collected from the Olympics’ official website. Results showed that at Tokyo Olympics almost all swimmers’ times improved as compared to Rio’s. Analysis of performance trends highlighted that performance progression does not proceed in a linear fashion and that is best predicted by more recent results. Women’s progression was higher than men’s and the gap between the first and last finalist constantly decreased, except for the Tokyo Olympics. In conclusion, the unprecedented Tokyo Olympic Games and qualification year seems not to have disrupted all Olympic swimmers’ performance, suggesting that stakeholders support and athlete’s coping ability might safeguard the subsistence of performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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16 pages, 34423 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acceptance of Digital Sports: A Study Showing the Rising Acceptance of Digital Health Activities Due to the SARS-CoV-19 Pandemic

by Jacqueline Ruth, Steffen Willwacher and Oliver Korn

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(1), 596; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19010596 - 05 Jan 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4430

Abstract

In pandemic times, the possibilities for conventional sports activities are severely limited; many sports facilities are closed or can only be used with restrictions. To counteract this lack of health activities and social exchange, people are increasingly adopting new digital sports solutions—a behavior [...] Read more.

In pandemic times, the possibilities for conventional sports activities are severely limited; many sports facilities are closed or can only be used with restrictions. To counteract this lack of health activities and social exchange, people are increasingly adopting new digital sports solutions—a behavior change that had already started with the trend towards fitness apps and activity trackers. Existing research suggests that digital solutions increase the motivation to move and stay active. This work further investigates the potentials of digital sports incorporating the dimensions gender and preference for team sports versus individual sports. The study focuses on potential users, who were mostly younger professionals and academics. The results show that the SARS-CoV-19 pandemic had a significant negative impact on sports activity, particularly on persons preferring team sports. To compensate, most participants use more digital sports than before, and there is a positive correlation between the time spent physically active during the pandemic and the increase in motivation through digital sports. Nevertheless, there is still considerable skepticism regarding the potential of digital sports solutions to increase the motivation to do sports, increase performance, or raise a sense of team spirit when done in groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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12 pages, 1046 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Behaviour of Home Advantage during the COVID-19 Pandemic in European Rink Hockey Leagues

by Jordi Arboix-Alió, Guillem Trabal, Bernat Buscà, Javier Peña, Adrià Arboix and Raúl Hileno

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(1), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19010228 - 26 Dec 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2793

Abstract

The primary purpose of the present study was to compare the home advantage (HA) and the home team performance in the most relevant European rink hockey leagues (Spanish, Portuguese and Italian), considering the presence or absence of spectators in the competition venues due [...] Read more.

The primary purpose of the present study was to compare the home advantage (HA) and the home team performance in the most relevant European rink hockey leagues (Spanish, Portuguese and Italian), considering the presence or absence of spectators in the competition venues due to the effect of COVID-19 restrictions. The sample was composed of 1665 rink hockey matches (654 from the Spanish league, 497 from the Portuguese league, and 514 from the Italian league) played between the 2018–2019 and 2020–2021 seasons. The HA and match variables comparisons were established using several negative binomial regression models. Results showed that the effect of HA did not disappear despite playing without spectators but decreased from 63.99% to 57.41% (p = 0.002). Moreover, the comparison of the match variables showed that playing with spectators benefited local teams’ performance, especially in the Portuguese and Italian leagues. Playing with spectators favoured local team performance in rink hockey matches, which is more evident in some analysed leagues. However, as HA does not disappear entirely without spectators, it is necessary to study other relevant performance factors that are not directly or indirectly attributable to crowd behaviour in rink hockey performance analyses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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14 pages, 369 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of COVID-19 Home Confinement on Behavior, Perception of Threat, Stress and Training Patterns of Olympic and Paralympic Athletes

by María José Martínez-Patiño, Francisco Javier Blas Lopez, Michel Dubois, Eric Vilain and Juan Pedro Fuentes-García

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(23), 12780; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182312780 - 03 Dec 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2478

Abstract

Background: The aims of this study were to analyze the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent confinement on behaviors, perception of threat, stress, state of mind and training patterns among Olympic and Paralympic level athletes. Methods: Data gathering was performed utilizing [...] Read more.

Background: The aims of this study were to analyze the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent confinement on behaviors, perception of threat, stress, state of mind and training patterns among Olympic and Paralympic level athletes. Methods: Data gathering was performed utilizing an online questionnaire during imposed confinement. A correlational design with incidental sampling for convenience was used. All the variables were analyzed by age, gender, academic training, type of participation and sport specialty on a population composed of 447 Olympic (age: 26.0 ± 7.5 years) and 64 Paralympic (age: 28.4 ± 10.5 years) athletes. Results: The athletes trained more than twice as many hours before than during confinement. Most of the athletes recognized that their best athletic performance diminished due to the COVID-19 confinement but that will recover after the pandemic and its confinements. Almost half of the athletes declared they were more tired than normal and had difficulty sleeping, while more than half ate more or less as usual. Paralympic athletes reported they felt more capable to cope with personal problems and life events and felt less lonely during the confinement than the Olympians. The athletes from team sports reported to be more affected in their training routine than athletes of individual sports, seeing their athletic performance more affected. Athletes in individual sports felt more able to cope with personal problems than athletes in team sports. Female athletes were significantly more tired and reported more difficulty sleeping than male athletes. Conclusion: The situation caused by COVID-19 has had significant effects on the behavior, perception of threat, stress and training patterns of Olympic and Paralympic athletes preparing for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. It is necessary that sports institutions reinforce mechanisms of help for athletes during future situations of confinement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

12 pages, 982 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19 Prevention Measures Implemented by Tennis Coaches: The Role of Continent, Experience, and Type of Facility

by Rafael Martínez-Gallego, Juan Pedro Fuentes-García and Miguel Crespo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(23), 12679; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182312679 - 01 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1768

Abstract

The prevention strategies used by tennis coaches when delivering tennis lessons during the COVID-19 pandemic were analyzed in this study. An ad hoc questionnaire collected data from 655 Spanish and Portuguese speaking tennis coaches working in Latin America and Europe. Differences in the [...] Read more.

The prevention strategies used by tennis coaches when delivering tennis lessons during the COVID-19 pandemic were analyzed in this study. An ad hoc questionnaire collected data from 655 Spanish and Portuguese speaking tennis coaches working in Latin America and Europe. Differences in the prevention measures were analyzed according to the continent, the coaches’ experience, and the type of facility they worked in. Results showed that coaches used information provided from local and national organizations more than from international ones. Hand hygiene, communication of preventive strategies, and changes in the coaching methodology were the most used prevention measures. Latin American coaches and those working in public facilities implemented the measures more often than their European colleagues or those working in private venues. Finally, more experienced coaches showed a greater awareness of the adoption of the measures than their less experienced counterparts. The data provided by this research may assist in developing new specific guidelines, protocols, and interventions to help better understand the daily delivery of tennis coaching in this challenging context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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13 pages, 797 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Remotely Supervised Exercise during the COVID-19 Pandemic versus in-Person-Supervised Exercise in Achieving Long-Term Adherence to a Healthy Lifestyle

by Guillermo García Pérez de Sevilla, Olga Barceló Guido, María de la Paz De la Cruz, Ascensión Blanco Fernández, Lidia B. Alejo, María Isabel Ramírez Goercke and Margarita Pérez-Ruiz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(22), 12198; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182212198 - 20 Nov 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2091

Abstract

The World Health Organization’s global action plan on workers’ health establishes that occupational health services should carry out lifestyle interventions within the workplace, to prevent the development of non-communicable diseases. The objective of the study was to compare adherence to a healthy lifestyle [...] Read more.

The World Health Organization’s global action plan on workers’ health establishes that occupational health services should carry out lifestyle interventions within the workplace, to prevent the development of non-communicable diseases. The objective of the study was to compare adherence to a healthy lifestyle six months after completion of a multi-component intervention with remotely supervised physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic versus a multi-component intervention with in-person supervised physical exercise before the COVID-19 pandemic in university employees with unhealthy habits and predisposed to change. A prospective cohort study following the “Strengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology” (STROBE) guidelines was conducted, with two arms. Each multi-component intervention lasted for 18 weeks, and consisted of education on healthy habits, Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet)-based workshops, and a physical exercise program. Twenty-one middle-aged sedentary university employees with poor adherence to the MedDiet completed the study. Six months after completion of the intervention, both groups increased physical activity levels, adherence to the MedDiet, eating habits, health-promoting lifestyle, health responsibility, and health-related quality of life. There were no differences between groups in any of the variables analyzed. Therefore, remotely supervised physical exercise could be adequate to achieve long-term adherence to a healthy lifestyle in the same way as conventional face-to-face intervention, at least in a population willing to change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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14 pages, 892 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association of COMT Polymorphisms with Multiple Physical Activity-Related Injuries among University Students in China

by Shangmin Chen, Weicong Cai, Shiwei Duan, Lijie Gao, Wenda Yang, Yang Gao, Cunxian Jia, Hongjuan Zhang and Liping Li

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(20), 10828; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182010828 - 15 Oct 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1993

Abstract

The catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) is a candidate gene to provide promising evidence of psychiatric disorders, but there is a knowledge gap between the genetic factor and multiple physical activity-related injuries (PARIs). The aim of this study was to explore the contribution of COMT to [...] Read more.

The catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) is a candidate gene to provide promising evidence of psychiatric disorders, but there is a knowledge gap between the genetic factor and multiple physical activity-related injuries (PARIs). The aim of this study was to explore the contribution of COMT to the risk of PARIs among university students in the Chinese Han population. We can further search for the intrinsic risk factors for the occurrence of multiple physical activity injuries and provide a scientific basis for early screening and precise intervention for the high-risk group of college students with multiple PARIs. A 1:1 matched case-control study of 61 PARIs cases and 61 healthy controls were carried out. DNA samples of the participants were isolated from saliva and genotyped on eight SNPs of the COMT gene (rs9265, rs4680, rs6269, rs4818, rs4633, rs165655, rs165656, and rs165722) using the MALDI-TOF MS method. We found that rs6269 and rs4818 were significantly associated with PARIs, and rs6269-GG and rs4818-GG contributed to the reduced risk of PARIs. Further haplotype analysis showed a four-marker C-G-C-G haplotype (rs165722-rs6269-rs4633-rs4818) acted with a protective role in the development of PARIs (p = 0.037; OR: 0.474, 95% CI: 0.269 to 0.834). However, the interactions between club membership and rs6269 or rs4818 would significantly increase the risk of PARIs (both p < 0.001, OR: 5.121 and 4.977, respectively). This is the first study to find the contribution of COMT to PARIs occurrence, suggesting that the COMT polymorphisms and the gene–environment interactions may alter the risk of PARIs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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Review

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Medical Care Management Based on Disaster Medicine for the Triathlon Events at the XXXII Olympiad and Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games

by Masaharu Yagi, Ryoji Kasanami, Yoko Tarumi and Kenji Dohi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(19), 6891; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20196891 - 07 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1325

Abstract

Planning the medical services for the triathlon competition at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games was predicted to be challenging because of possible last-minute changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic and abnormally high temperatures. Therefore, event planners organized and executed a disaster [...] Read more.

Planning the medical services for the triathlon competition at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games was predicted to be challenging because of possible last-minute changes related to the COVID-19 pandemic and abnormally high temperatures. Therefore, event planners organized and executed a disaster medical care plan, a plan for providing care during emergencies. Based on the basic medical plan for all venues provided by the Tokyo 2020 Organizing Committee, planners for the triathlon venue prepared a medical care plan according to the CSCATTT principles: Command and control, Safety, Communication, Assessment, Treatment, Triage, and Transport. After the event, planners evaluated the number of COVID-19, heatstroke, and injury cases at the venue. The events were conducted without spectators in July and August 2022 because at the last minute, planners held the event without spectators. The triathlon competition involved 638 individuals, including athletes and staff. In total, 7 cases of injuries, 3 cases of mild heatstroke, and 13 other cases were reported, with only 2 requiring emergency transportation. No cases of COVID-19 were reported from the triathlon venue, including during the observation period after the event. This medical plan was effective in preventing heatstroke and COVID-19 cases during the big event. Efficiently and effectively responding to various situations is possible in a shorter period by planning large-scale medical services for such special circumstances according to CSCATTT, a principle of disaster medical care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Physical Activity and Health at Time of COVID-19)

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