IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND WELL-BEING OF HUNGARIAN ATHLETES AND SPORTS PROFESSIONALS

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant effect on regular activities and lifestyles in Hungary in the second quarter of 2020. In this study, we identify the physical activity and mental well-being changes in the Hungarian sport sector.

Material and methods
A questionnaire, which included internationally validated items, was created to survey members of the sporting sector in Hungary. In June 2020, we obtained 840 valid responses, the age and gender profile of which were closely representative of the overall population. The results were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results
Physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic changed significantly (p<0.001) in the Hungarian sport sector, decreasing by 166±1128 minutes (mean±SD) per week, on average. Women (-286±980 weekly minutes) and children’s (-304±951 weekly minutes) physical activity decreased the most, whereas that of middle-aged (-83±1024 weekly minutes) and graduates (-99±982 weekly minutes) decreased the least. Greater well-being was felt during the pandemic by those who were either more physically active, or could even increase their physical activity.

Conclusions
Even in the sport sector, the more physically active people are, the greater their well-being. Therefore, promotion of physical activity becomes even more important in challenging times.