Digital uses for physical activity during and after the COVID-19 lockdowns: A mixed methods study

Résumé 0

Objective: To determine the reasons for using a digital exercise tool during lockdown, and change in this use after lockdown. Methods: This study followed 196 individuals during and after lockdown. An online questionnaire collected quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative data included closed-ended questions evaluating factors influencing the use of digital tools for exercising, digital tool usage, physical activity levels, and sitting time. The qualitative data comprised open-ended questions about the reasons for digital tool usage, taking a “multiple-lives” perspective by examining continuity, change of tool, discontinuous use, or stopping use. Results: The quantitative data showed that digital tool users were young adults with a high level of education. Half of these individuals used a digital tool for the first time during lockdown. Post-lockdown, about 82% of the participants stopped using digital tools. The perceived usefulness of these tools during the COVID-19 period was a key driver of usage. The qualitative data revealed that the primary reasons for using digital tools during lockdown were the need for expert advice and programs, and a lack of motivation for home-based exercise. Conclusions: The closure of sports facilities during lockdown produced a substantial shift toward the use of digital technologies for maintaining physical activity. However, as the lockdown measures were relaxed, usage of these technologies declined. This underscores the importance of further scrutinizing the quality and effectiveness of these tools, many of which are freely available, in order to ensure their suitability for public health and fitness programs.