COVID-19 stay-at-home order in Tyrol, Austria: sports and exercise behaviour in change?

Abstract

Objectives The aim of the study was to investigate differences in the frequency and types of engagement in sport before, during, and after the COVID-19 stay-at-home order in Tyrol, Austria. Study design A representative population survey was conducted. Methods A sample of Tyroleans (N = 511) were questioned by a market research institute via online questionnaire or telephone survey. Results During the stay-at-home order survey participants did less sport than before and after the restrictions. However, within-group analyses revealed increasing sport participation in less active groups when comparing the pre- and post-COVID-19 period. Conclusions Despite the restrictions during the stay-at-home order, respondents did sport and promoted their health. Nevertheless, it is still necessary to investigate the long-term effects of the COVID-19 crisis on sport and exercise behaviour as well as the extent to which sport policy measures may be able increase sport participation.