Shifts in Self-Reported Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, and Play Among Lower-Socioeconomic Children During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Purpose The lack of in-person schooling and participation in structured recreation activities during the COVID-19 pandemic may have altered children’s movement behaviors. This study assessed changes in children’s self-reported in school and out of school physical activity, sedentary behavior, and play before and during the pandemic. Design A repeated cross-sectional online survey was administered in February 2020 (pre-pandemic, in-person) and 2021 (during pandemic, remote). Setting Children attended an urban public school district in Phoenix (AZ) serving a low-income population. Subjects Students in grades 4–8 completed the survey in 2020 ( n = 253, 62% response rate) and 2021 ( n = 261, 77% response rate). Measures The survey included items from the Youth Activity Profile and three additional questions about play. Analysis Differences in mean scores and mean scores by gender were analyzed using one-way and two-way ANOVAs. Results Students reported less physical activity during remote recess in 2021 (M = 3.42, SD = .80 v. M = 2.99, SD = .86, p < .05). Physical activity outside of school decreased during the pandemic (M = 2.76, SD = 1.26 v. M = 2.53, SD = 1.18, p < .05). Most students (55%) reported playing less during the pandemic, but playing in new ways (67%). Conclusion Children may benefit from interventions to counter reduced movement experienced during the pandemic, particularly in under-resourced areas.