More physical distancing led to less physical activity for kids and teens

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2022-07-12 01:00

Australia; New Zealand; International; VIC

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Physical distancing measures designed to reduce the spread of COVID-19 also reduced the amount of activity for young people, according to a worldwide review of 22 studies that followed more than 14,000 under 18s. Researchers found that children's moderate-to-vigorous physical activity decreased 17 minutes per day from pre-pandemic levels. They also found that children who had access to outdoor space were twice as likely to reach the recommended amount of physical activity, and larger reductions in activity occurred when COVID-19 restrictions coincided with the summer holidays. The authors say that targeted, child-centered public health initiatives are needed to support young people to take part in more physical activity, as it has numerous benefits for both physical and mental health.

Media release

From: JAMA

In this systematic review and meta-analysis of 22 international studies that included 14,000 children and adolescents, pooled estimates indicate that the duration of engagement in total daily physical activity decreased by 20% during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings underscore the need to provide bolstered access to support and resources related to physical activity to ensure good health and social functioning among children and adolescents during pandemic recovery efforts.

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Journal/
conference: JAMA Pediatrics

Research:Paper

Organisation/s: Victoria University, University College Dublin, Ireland

Funder: na

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