The COVID-19 pandemic and perceived exercise benefits and barriers

Abstract

Background and objective With the emergence of a global pandemic, new challenges have arisen. Among them are issues relating to exercising, and perceived benefits of and barriers to exercising, particularly when many people find their opportunities for exercise limited by lockdowns. The aim of this study was to investigate how COVID‑19 has affected Turkish society’s perceptions of exercise and physical activity levels. Methods This descriptive and cross-sectional study of 410 eligible participants used an online demographic background survey, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale. Results The isolation period affects individuals’ physical activity levels, with results indicating minimal activity levels in the general population. Higher levels of physical activity were associated with increases in the perception of exercise benefits and decreases in perceived barriers to exercise. Discussion Reducing the perception of barriers related to exercise can increase the feasibility and promote both physical and mental health through physical activity. © The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners 2021