Moving Forward: Understanding Correlates of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour during COVID-19—An Integrative Review and Socioecological Approach

Rachel L. Knight, Melitta A. McNarry, Liba Sheeran, Adam W. Runacres, Rhys Thatcher, James Shelley and Kelly A. Mackintosh
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Rachel L. Knight: Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
Melitta A. McNarry: Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
Liba Sheeran: School of Healthcare Sciences, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4EP, UK
Adam W. Runacres: Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
Rhys Thatcher: Institute of Biological Environmental and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth SY23 3FL, UK
James Shelley: Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
Kelly A. Mackintosh: Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK

IJERPH, 2021, vol. 18, issue 20, 1-19

Abstract: Population-level physical activity (PA) and sedentary time/behaviour estimates represent a significant public health issue exacerbated by restrictions enforced to control COVID-19. This integrative review interrogated available literature to explore the pandemic’s impact on correlates of such behaviours in adults (≥18 years). Five electronic databases were systematically searched in January 2021. Data extracted from 64 articles were assessed for risk-of-bias using the Mixed Methods Assessment Tool, with correlates identified, coded, and themed via thematic analysis. A socioecological model of during-pandemic PA was conceptualized and mapped to the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, and Behaviour (COM-B) model of behaviour change mechanisms, which illustrates influences over five levels: Individual (biological)—general health; Individual (psychological)—mental health, cognition, motivation, and behaviour; Social—domestic situation, sociodemographic factors, support, and lifestyle choices; Environmental—resources and area of residence; and Policy—COVID-19-related rules. For sedentary time/behaviour, individual level factors, namely general and mental health, may be important correlates. Neither age or sex were clearly correlated with either behaviour. As we transition into a new normal, understanding which behaviour mechanisms could effectively challenge physical inactivity is essential. Targeting capability on a psychological level may facilitate PA and limit sedentary time/behaviour, whereas, on a physical level, maximizing PA opportunities could be crucial.

Keywords: physical inactivity; adults; coronavirus; older adults; sedentary time; movement behaviours; SARS-CoV-2; determinants; COM-B model; behaviour change (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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