Subscribe
Chart of the Week General

Post-Pandemic Normal for Physical Activity

Activity levels dropped during lockdown — obviously — but, surprisingly, they've not returned to baseline since

  • Physical activity after lifting of lockdowns remains below expected levels (estimated based on two years of activity preceding COVID-19).
  • Individuals of lower socioeconomic status and those reporting worse mental health are more likely to engage in reduced physical activity.
  • Lower daily step counts can contribute to chronic illnesses and worsen health disparities.

Sources

Desine S, Master H, Annis J, et al. Daily Step Counts Before and After the COVID-19 Pandemic Among All of Us Research Participants. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6:e233526.

Master H, Annis J, Huang S, et al. Association of Step Counts Over Time With the Risk of Chronic Disease in the All of Us Research Program. Nat Med. 2022;28:2301-2308.

Read next

Comments ()