Lack of physical activity among European children and adolescents following the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated lockdowns, children and young people spent significantly less time outdoors. A global decline in physical activity as well as an increase in screen time, obesity and mental disorders resulted. A systematic review of changes in physical activity among European children and adolescents stemming from the restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic revealed that the insufficient pre-pandemic physical activity levels further declined, by around a quarter, during the pandemic. This gives rise to a concern that some of the behaviours acquired during the pandemic will be retained permanently. Since inadequate physical activity levels in children and adolescents are a major health problem worldwide and may have lasting effects on the health of this generation, there is an urgent need for health practitioners and policy makers to take action.