Time and belief in exercise importance predict increased activity during initial COVID-19 restrictions in Ireland

The aim of this work was to investigate physical activity levels and the associated barriers and facilitators to physical activity in Irish adults during initial COVID-19 restrictions. Members of the general population completed an online questionnaire. Responses from 1274 participants (1274/1568, 81% completion rate) indicated that the majority (46.1%, n = 587) of people were more active than usual during the restrictions, however, 28.6% (n = 365) reported being less active. Fifty-five percent (55.3%, n = 702) of participants were meeting public health physical activity guidelines and more than half (53.3%, n = 679) reported finding new ways to be active. Walking (86%, n = 1101), physical activity in the home (47%, n = 593) and online resources (38%, n = 483) were the most frequently reported types of physical activity people engaged in. Having more time to be physically active [OR 2.326 (SD 1.948-2.794)] and a greater belief in the importance of physical activity [OR 1.192 (SD 1.001-1.444)] were predictive of exercising more than usual. Being unable to access their usual means of exercise [OR 1.612 (SD 1.369-1.902)], advised not to go outside the home [OR 1.402 (SD 1.165-1.698)] and working more than usual [OR 1.201 (SD 1.013-1.443)] were predictive of exercising less than usual. There was a positive trend in physical activity engagement by Irish adults during initial COVID-19 restrictions, likely influenced by increased time, belief that exercise was important and increased use of home-based and online exercise resources. However, almost one in three people reported being less active than usual, highlighting the need for targeted support during restriction periods. Lay Summary Our study aimed to find out what helped and what hindered people being physically active during the initial COVID-19 restrictions (May 2020). At this time, people in Ireland were advised to stay at home and only permitted to exercise within a limited distance from their homes. The vast majority of exercise facilities, such as gyms and swimming pools were closed. We collected our information using an online survey, which 1274 people completed. Results showed that close to half of people reported being more active than usual during this time, however almost one in three people reported being less active than usual. Those who were more active reported having more time than before and had a strong belief that exercise was important. A lot of people found new ways to exercise, such as online exercise classes. Walking was the most popular physical activity. Those who were exercising less than usual reported their usual means of exercise being unavailable to them, being advised not to leave their homes and having to work more than usual. Understanding what helps and prevents people from being physically active during COVID-19 restrictions helps governments, health professionals and exercise specialists plan how best to promote physical activity if periods of similar restrictions occur.