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Physical Activity during the COVID-19 Pandemic in the UK: A Qualitative Analysis of Free-Text Survey Data

Author

Listed:
  • Verity Hailey

    (Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK)

  • Alexandra Burton

    (Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK)

  • Mark Hamer

    (Institute Sport Exercise & Health, Division Surgery & Interventional Science, University College London, London W1T 7HA, UK)

  • Daisy Fancourt

    (Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK)

  • Abigail Fisher

    (Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK)

Abstract

Background: Several quantitative studies have found a decline in physical activity in response to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. The aim of the present study was to use large-scale free text survey data to qualitatively gain a more in-depth understanding of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity, then map barriers and facilitators to the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, and Behaviour (COM-B) Model of Behaviour to aid future intervention development. Methods: 17,082 participants provided a response to the free text module, and data from those who mentioned a physical activity related word in any context were included. Data were analysed using thematic analysis and key themes identified. Results: 5396 participants provided 7490 quotes related to physical activity. The sample were predominately female (84%), white (British/Irish/Other) (97%) and aged <60 years (57%). Seven key themes were identified: the importance of outdoor space, changes in daily routine, COVID-19 restrictions prevented participation, perceived risks or threats to participation, the importance of physical health, the importance of physical activity for mental health and the use of technology. Conclusion: Future physical activity interventions could encourage people to walk outdoors, which is low cost, flexible, and accessible to many. Developing online resources to promote and support physical activity provides a flexible way to deliver quality content to a large audience.

Suggested Citation

  • Verity Hailey & Alexandra Burton & Mark Hamer & Daisy Fancourt & Abigail Fisher, 2022. "Physical Activity during the COVID-19 Pandemic in the UK: A Qualitative Analysis of Free-Text Survey Data," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(22), pages 1-15, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:22:p:14784-:d:968558
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Charlotte Roche & Abigail Fisher & Daisy Fancourt & Alexandra Burton, 2022. "Exploring Barriers and Facilitators to Physical Activity during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(15), pages 1-16, July.
    2. Jennie A. Petersen & Calli Naish & Dalia Ghoneim & Jason L. Cabaj & Patricia K. Doyle-Baker & Gavin R. McCormack, 2021. "Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour: A Qualitative Study in a Canadian City," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(9), pages 1-15, April.
    3. Johnson, Ginger A. & Vindrola-Padros, Cecilia, 2017. "Rapid qualitative research methods during complex health emergencies: A systematic review of the literature," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 189(C), pages 63-75.
    4. Rachel L. Knight & Melitta A. McNarry & Liba Sheeran & Adam W. Runacres & Rhys Thatcher & James Shelley & Kelly A. Mackintosh, 2021. "Moving Forward: Understanding Correlates of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour during COVID-19—An Integrative Review and Socioecological Approach," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(20), pages 1-19, October.
    5. Michelle C. Kondo & Jaime M. Fluehr & Thomas McKeon & Charles C. Branas, 2018. "Urban Green Space and Its Impact on Human Health," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-28, March.
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