Abstract

The present study investigated the impact of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on physical activity (PA) levels, gender differences in activity, and the relationship between PA, well-being, and mood among gym exercisers. A cohort of 366 gym exercisers (126 males, 240 females) aged 15 to 59 years (Mage = 34.63 ± 9.27) willingly participated in this study. Data were collected using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire - Short Form (IPAQ-SF) for PA and sedentary behavior, the Short Diet Behavior Questionnaire for Lockdowns (SDBQ-L) for healthy eating, the 4-Dimensional Mood Scale (4DMS) for mood, the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) for anxiety, and the WHO-5 Well-Being Index for mental well-being. Additionally, participants’ attitudes and intentions toward exercise and returning to fitness centers were assessed. The findings revealed that moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and healthy eating behaviors significantly predicted participants' well-being and positive energy. Conversely, sedentariness along with healthy eating behaviors were significant predictors of negative arousal. Males reported higher levels of MVPA and intention to be physically active compared to females. Younger participants showed higher VPA, depression, and anxiety, and lower BMI compared to older participants. The findings underscore the importance of maintaining regular PA, particularly at moderate or vigorous intensities, and healthy eating habits for mental well-being during public health crises. These insights hold considerable value for shaping future policies and intervention strategies aimed at mitigating the detrimental consequences of prolonged physical inactivity.

Keywords

COVID-19 lockdown, Gym exercisers, Physical activity, Dietary habits, Well-being, Mental health,

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