Control
Most studies analyze activity levels before infection, comparing regular/moderate exercise and lower/no exercise. Risk may increase with more extreme activity levels. Exercise may also be beneficial after infection. One study shows lower COVID-19 mortality with exercise during hospitalization1.
Recent:Gil.
May 24 |
Exercise reduces COVID-19 risk: real-time meta analysis of 68 studies | |
| Significantly lower risk is seen for mortality, ventilation, ICU admission, hospitalization, progression, recovery, and cases. 52 studies from 52 independent teams in 24 countries show significant benefit. Meta analysis using the most ser.. | ||
Mar 24 2024 |
et al., Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, doi:10.1016/j.jaim.2024.100897 | Effect of Yoga-based breathing practices on depression, anxiety, stress, and fear of COVID-19 positive hospitalized patients: A randomized controlled trial |
| RCT 63 hospitalized COVID-19 patients showing significant reductions in depression, anxiety, stress, and fear scores with breathing exercises 30 minutes per day for 10 days. | ||
Mar 22 2024 |
et al., Critical Care Research and Practice, doi:10.1155/2024/4118896 | Effects of the High-Intensity Early Mobilization on Long-Term Functional Status of Patients with Mechanical Ventilation in the Intensive Care Unit |
| Non-COVID-19 RCT showing that high-intensity early mobility in mechanically ventilated ICU patients improved functional status and independence. Authors also reported improved mobility, muscle strength, and lower incidence of ICU-acquired.. | ||
Feb 13 2024 |
et al., JAMA Network Open, doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.55808 | Prepandemic Physical Activity and Risk of COVID-19 Diagnosis and Hospitalization in Older Adults |
| 27% lower hospitalization (p=0.002) and 9% fewer cases (p=0.004). Prospective study of 61,557 adults aged 45+ years showing reduced risk of COVID-19 diagnosis and hospitalization for those meeting physical activity guidelines of ≥7.5 MET-hours/week before the pandemic compared to inactive individuals. | ||
Jan 31 2024 |
et al., Nature Communications, doi:10.1038/s41467-024-50495-7 (date from preprint) | Modifiable lifestyle factors and the risk of post-COVID-19 multisystem sequelae, hospitalization, and death |
| 30% lower mortality (p<0.0001), 12% lower hospitalization (p<0.0001), and 14% lower PASC (p<0.0001). Prospective study of 68,896 UK Biobank participants with COVID-19 showing adherence to a healthy lifestyle prior to infection, characterized by 10 factors including adequate physical activity and sleep, not smoking, and a healthy BMI, was.. | ||
Dec 14 2023 |
et al., BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation, doi:10.1186/s13102-023-00782-5 | Physical activity status prevents symptoms of long covid: Sulcovid-19 survey |
| 20% lower PASC (p=0.05). Retrospective 2,919 non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Brazil showing remaining physically active before and after COVID-19 infection reduces the probability of experiencing long COVID symptoms, particularly those affecting the musculo.. | ||
Nov 9 2023 |
et al., Diseases, doi:10.3390/diseases11040165 | Association of COVID-19 Infection with Sociodemographic, Anthropometric and Lifestyle Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study in an Older Adults’ Population Aged over 65 Years Old |
| 42% fewer cases (p=0.001). Retrospective 5,197 Greek adults over 65. After adjustment for confounders, COVID-19 infection was independently associated with poor sleep, low physical activity, low Mediterranean diet adherence, living in urban areas, smoking, obesity,.. | ||
Nov 7 2023 |
et al., Nutrients, doi:10.3390/nu16071037 | The Association between Lifestyle Factors and COVID-19: Findings from Qatar Biobank |
| 7% fewer cases (p=0.4). Retrospective 10,000 adults in Qatar, showing lower risk of COVID-19 cases with increased leisure time physical activity, without statistical significance. Authors do not analyze COVID-19 severity. | ||
Nov 6 2023 |
et al., Scientific Reports, doi:10.1038/s41598-023-46162-4 | Association of SARS-CoV-2 infection with physical activity domains and types |
| Retrospective 22,165 adults in the French NutriNet-Santé cohort showing higher levels of total physical activity, vigorous activity, leisure-time activity, household activity, outdoor activity, and indoor activity during the COVID-19 lock.. | ||
Nov 5 2023 |
et al., DIGITAL HEALTH, doi:10.1177/20552076231207593 | Detecting the most critical clinical variables of COVID-19 breakthrough infection in vaccinated persons using machine learning |
| Retrospective 257 individuals, finding higher physical activity as one of the most predictive variables for lower risk of COVID-19 breakthrough infection. | ||
Oct 2 2023 |
et al., BMC Nutrition, doi:10.1186/s40795-023-00727-8 | Beneficial role of healthy eating Index-2015 score & physical activity on COVID-19 outcomes |
| 54% fewer moderate/severe cases (p=0.01). Retrospective 68 COVID-19 patients showing physical activity and healthier nutrition associated with lower COVID-19 severity. | ||
Aug 14 2023 |
et al., Jornal de Pediatria, doi:10.1016/j.jped.2023.07.006 | Lifestyle and quality of life in children and adolescents during the covid-19 social distancing period |
| Cross-sectional analysis of 2,574 families in Brazil, showing that pandemic social distancing caused negative changes in exercise, diet, and sleep for children. | ||
Aug 1 2023 |
et al., Journal of Preventive Medicine and Hygiene, doi:10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2023.64.2.2625 | Association between physical activity and risk of COVID-19 infection or clinical outcomes of the patients with COVID-19; A systematic review and meta-analysis |
| 39% lower mortality (p<0.0001) and 46% lower hospitalization (p<0.0001). Systematic review and meta analysis showing significantly lower COVID-19 mortality and hospitalization with regular physical activity. | ||
Jul 15 2023 |
et al., Current Research in Immunology, doi:10.1016/j.crimmu.2023.100064 | High baseline frequencies of natural killer cells are associated with asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection |
| Analysis of 88 COVID+ patients in the USA showing that a higher frequency of natural killer (NK) cells was associated with asymptomatic infection. Improved NK cell numbers and functioning has been shown for exercise [Oh], better sleep [Ir.. | ||
Jul 15 2023 |
et al., Sports Science and Health, doi:10.7251/SSH2301078S | Influence of the Level of Physical Activity on Symptoms and Duration of Recovery From Covid-19 |
| 89% lower need for oxygen therapy (p=0.05), 91% lower hospitalization (p=0.02), 84% lower progression (p<0.0001), and 47% improved recovery (p=0.0002). Retrospective 100 COVID-19 patients in Bosnia and Herzegovina, showing lower symptom severity and faster recovery with a history of regular physical activity. | ||
Jun 21 2023 |
et al., Sports Medicine - Open, doi:10.1186/s40798-023-00592-6 | Self-Reported Pre-Pandemic Physical Activity and Likelihood of COVID-19 Infection: Data from the First Wave of the CoCo-Fakt Survey |
| 31% fewer cases (p=0.02). Retrospective 5,338 individuals with confirmed contact with a COVID-19 patient, showing lower risk of COVID-19 with exercise. | ||
Jun 15 2023 |
et al., Journal of Clinical Medicine, doi:10.3390/jcm12124054 | The Association of Weight Reduction and Other Variables after Bariatric Surgery with the Likelihood of SARS-CoV-2 Infection |
| 53% fewer cases (p=0.04). Retrospective 3,038 bariatric surgery patients in Israel, showing higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection with vitamin D deficiency, and lower risk with physical activity. | ||
Jun 14 2023 |
et al., Journal of Clinical Medicine, doi:10.3390/jcm12124046 | Physical Activity Modifies the Severity of COVID-19 in Hospitalized Patients—Observational Study |
| 62% lower mortality (p=0.21) and 61% improved recovery (p=0.19). Prospective study of 131 hospitalized patients in Poland, showing lower mortality and improved recovery with a history of higher physical activity. | ||
Jun 14 2023 |
et al., PLOS ONE, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0286119 | The neighborhood built environment and COVID-19 hospitalizations |
| Analysis of neighborhood built environment characteristics in the USA with 18,042 COVID+ individuals, showing lower risk of hospitalization with higher walkability and higher bikeability scores. | ||
Jun 13 2023 |
et al., Public Health, doi:10.1016/j.puhe.2023.05.011 | Physical activity and long COVID: findings from the Prospective Study About Mental and Physical Health in Adults cohort |
| 26% lower PASC (p=0.02). Analysis of 237 COVID-19 patients in Brazil, showing lower risk of long COVID with physical activity. | ||
Jun 7 2023 |
et al., Journal of Pediatric Nursing, doi:10.1016/j.pedn.2023.06.003 | COVID-19 effects on diet, sleep, and physical activity among mid- to late-adolescents residing in the deep south in the United States |
| Prospective study tracking sleep, diet, and physical activity for adolescents in the USA before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, showing negative health effects of the pandemic / restrictions. | ||
May 23 2023 |
et al., INQUIRY: The Journal of Health Care Organization, Provision, and Financing, doi:10.1177/00469580231175780 | Changes in Diet, Physical Activity, Alcohol Consumption, and Tobacco Use in Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review |
| Systematic review showing 25 of 25 studies reported a decrease in physical activity and 13 of 13 studies reported an increase in sedentary behavior during the pandemic. | ||
May 10 2023 |
et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine, doi:10.1136/bjsports-2022-106681 | Effects of a 16-week home-based exercise training programme on health-related quality of life, functional capacity, and persistent symptoms in survivors of severe/critical COVID-19: a randomised controlled trial |
| RCT 50 post-severe/critical COVID-19 patients in Brazil, showing improved health-related quality of life with an exercise program (3 times a week, ~60–80 minutes/session, for 16 weeks). | ||
May 9 2023 |
et al., Medicina Clínica, doi:10.1016/j.medcli.2023.04.031 | Patterns of physical activity and SARS-CoV-2 severe pneumonia: A case–control study |
| 73% lower severe cases (p<0.0001). Case control study with 307 severe COVID-19 ICU patients and 307 matched COVID-19 outpatients in Brazil, showing significantly higher risk of severe cases with low physical activity. | ||
May 8 2023 |
et al., Heart & Lung, doi:10.1016/j.hrtlng.2023.05.002 | Impact of risk for severe COVID-19 illness on physical activity during the pandemic |
| Analysis of 640 adults in the USA, showing that adults at high risk of severe COVID-19 were disproportionately more likely to be physically inactive and had lower activity levels during the early months of the pandemic. | ||
May 5 2023 |
et al., Frontiers in Psychology, doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1145893 | Working-from-home persistently influences sleep and physical activity 2 years after the Covid-19 pandemic onset: a longitudinal sleep tracker and electronic diary-based study |
| Analysis of 225 adults in Singapore showing working from home associated with lower physical activity (as measured by step count) during August 2021 - January 2022. | ||
Apr 25 2023 |
et al., Fisioterapia, doi:10.1016/j.ft.2023.04.003 | Influence of Physical Exercise on the Severity of COVID-19 |
| 54% fewer symptomatic cases (p<0.0001). Retrospective 29,875 university staff and students in Spain, 3,662 with data, showing lower risk of COVID-19 symptoms for people that exercise. Exercise more than 5 days/week was the most protective, and intense exercise was more effectiv.. | ||
Apr 12 2023 |
et al., Scandinavian Journal of Public Health, doi:10.1177/14034948231163960 | Poor health status before the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with unfavourable changes in health-related lifestyle |
| Analysis of 3,834 adults in Finland, showing that people with poor health status were more likely to have unfavorable lifestyle changes during the pandemic, including decreased vegetable consumption, decreased leisure-time physical activi.. | ||
Mar 27 2023 |
et al., Journal of Clinical Medicine, doi:10.3390/jcm12072517 | Inadequate Physical Activity Is Associated with Worse Physical Function in a Sample of COVID-19 Survivors with Post-Acute Symptoms |
| Retrospective 1,846 post-acute COVID-19 patients in Italy, showing inadequate physical activity after recovering from COVID-19 associated with lower physical function. | ||
Mar 23 2023 |
et al., International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, doi:10.3390/ijerph20075223 | Unintended Consequences of COVID-19 Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs) for Population Health and Health Inequalities |
| Review of studies on non-pharmaceutical interventions for COVID-19 showing negative impacts on mental health, physical activity, and obesity. | ||
Mar 8 2023 |
et al., Frontiers in Physiology, doi:10.3389/fphys.2023.1089637 | The causal effect of physical activity intensity on COVID-19 susceptibility, hospitalization, and severity: Evidence from a mendelian randomization study |
| Mendelian randomization study showing lower risk of COVID-19 severity, hospitalization, and cases with light physical activity, but no significant difference for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Authors note that they were unable t.. | ||
Feb 14 2023 |
et al., Frontiers in Public Health, doi:10.3389/fpubh.2023.1072198 | Pre-pandemic physical activity as a predictor of infection and mortality associated with COVID-19: Evidence from the National Health Insurance Service |
| 26% lower mortality (p=0.08) and 7% fewer cases (p=0.02). Retrospective 4,363 COVID-19 patients and 67,125 controls in South Korea, showing higher risk of mortality and cases with insufficient physical activity. | ||
Feb 11 2023 |
et al., Preventive Medicine Reports, doi:10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102130 | Baseline physical activity and the risk of severe illness and mortality from COVID-19: A dose–response meta-analysis |
| Meta analysis of 14 studies showing a negative dose-response relationship between the level of physical activity and COVID-19 severity and mortality. | ||
Feb 6 2023 |
et al., JAMA Internal Medicine, doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2022.6555 | Adherence to Healthy Lifestyle Prior to Infection and Risk of Post–COVID-19 Condition |
| 11% lower PASC (p=0.2). Prospective analysis of 32,249 women, showing lower risk of PASC with a healthy lifestyle, in a dose-dependent manner. Participants with 5 or 6 healthy lifestyle factors had significantly lower COVID-19 hospitalization and PASC. BMI and s.. | ||
Feb 2 2023 |
et al., Journal of Applied Physiology, doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.00544.2022 | Intrahospital supervised exercise training improves survival rate among hypertensive COVID-19 patients |
| 47% lower mortality (p=0.02). Retrospective 439 severe COVID-19 hospitalized patients with hypertension, 201 receiving a supervised exercise program, showing significantly lower mortality with exercise. Exercise included of aerobic, breathing, and musculoskeletal exer.. | ||
Jan 5 2023 |
et al., Scientific Reports, doi:10.1038/s41598-022-26888-3 | Post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 associates with physical inactivity in a cohort of COVID-19 survivors |
| Cohort study of 614 COVID-19 survivors discharged from a hospital in Brazil showing an association between post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC) and physical inactivity 6-11 months after hospitalization. Patients with one or more persi.. | ||
Dec 28 2022 |
et al., Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine, doi:10.26444/aaem/156939 | Diet and selected elements of lifestyle in the Polish population before and during the COVID-19 pandemic – a population study |
| Retrospective 964 people in Poland showing decreased physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. | ||
Dec 14 2022 |
et al., American Journal of Preventive Medicine, doi:10.1016/j.amepre.2022.10.007 | Associations of Physical Inactivity and COVID-19 Outcomes Among Subgroups |
| 74% lower mortality (p<0.0001) and 48% lower hospitalization (p<0.0001). Retrospective 194,191 COVID-19 patients in the USA, showing lower risk of hospitalization and mortality with physical activity, with a dose response relationship. | ||
Dec 12 2022 |
et al., Journal of Infection and Public Health, doi:10.1016/j.jiph.2022.12.008 | Do selected lifestyle parameters affect the severity and symptoms of COVID-19 among elderly patients? The retrospective evaluation of individuals from the STOP-COVID registry of the PoLoCOV study |
| 71% lower severe cases (p=0.001). Retrospective 568 convalescent COVID-19 patients in Poland, showing lower risk of severe cases with regular physical activity in the 3 months before COVID-19. | ||
Nov 24 2022 |
et al., Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences, doi:10.3389/fresc.2022.1037649 | Post-COVID-19 complications in home and hospital-based care: A study from Dhaka city, Bangladesh |
| Retrospective 925 COVID-19 patients in Bangladesh reporting that "physical activity and exposure to sunlight was positively associated with earlier recovery from COVID-19 both in home and hospital care". Details are not provided. | ||
Nov 8 2022 |
et al., Frontiers in Physiology, doi:10.3389/fphys.2022.1030568 | Effects of physical activity on the severity of illness and mortality in COVID-19 patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis |
| Systematic review and meta analysis of 18 studies, showing significantly lower COVID-19 severity and mortality with physical activity. | ||
Nov 7 2022 |
et al., European Journal of General Practice, doi:10.1080/13814788.2022.2138855 | A higher frequency of physical activity is associated with reduced rates of SARS-CoV-2 infection |
| 42% fewer cases (p<0.0001). Retrospective 113,075 people in Israel, showing lower risk of COVID-19 cases with physical activity and a dose dependent response. | ||
Oct 31 2022 |
et al., The Lancet Global Health, doi:10.1016/S2214-109X(22)00361-8 | Worldwide physical activity trends since COVID-19 onset |
| Analysis of 1.2 million global users showing a significant decline in physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, which remained below the pre-pandemic baseline as of February 2022. | ||
Oct 29 2022 |
et al., International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, doi:10.3390/ijerph192114155 | Leisure Time Physical Activity and SARS-CoV-2 Infection among ELSA-Brasil Participants |
| 33% fewer cases (p=0.05). Retrospective 4,476 participants in Brazil, showing lower risk of COVID-19 cases with a history of physical activity, statistically significant only for those following specific practices to protect against COVID-19. | ||
Oct 24 2022 |
et al., Frontiers in Medicine, doi:10.3389/fmed.2022.1036556 | Lifestyle, course of COVID-19, and risk of Long-COVID in non-hospitalized patients |
| 11% fewer moderate/severe cases (p=0.3) and 14% lower PASC (p=0.24). Retrospective 1,847 COVID+ patients in Poland, showing no significant difference in moderate/severe cases with physical activity. Hospitalized patients were excluded. | ||
Oct 24 2022 |
et al., American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, doi:10.1177/15598276221135541 | The Association between Lifestyle Risk Factors and COVID-19 Hospitalization in a Healthcare Institution |
| 41% lower hospitalization (p=0.18). Retrospective 546 COVID+ patients in the USA, showing lower risk of hospitalization with higher frequency of strength training, without statistical significance. | ||
Aug 22 2022 |
et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine, doi:10.1136/bjsports-2022-105733 | Physical activity and risk of infection, severity and mortality of COVID-19: a systematic review and non-linear dose–response meta-analysis of data from 1 853 610 adults |
| 43% lower mortality (p<0.0001), 34% lower severe cases (p<0.0001), 36% lower hospitalization (p<0.0001), and 11% fewer cases (p=0.0002). Systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 studies, showing lower risk of cases, hospitalization, severe cases, and mortality with regular physical activity. A non-linear dose-response relationship was seen with benefits reducing above 500.. | ||
Jul 5 2022 |
et al., medRxiv, doi:10.1101/2022.07.01.22277144 | Impact of dementia, living in a long-term care facility, and physical activity status on COVID-19 severity in older adults |
| 56% lower severe cases (p<0.0001). Retrospective 4,868 elderly COVID-19 patients in Japan, showing higher risk of severe cases with poor physical activity status. | ||
Jun 23 2022 |
et al., medRxiv, doi:10.1101/2022.06.22.22276789 | Association of physical activity and the risk of COVID-19 hospitalization: a dose-response meta-analysis |
| 40% lower hospitalization (p<0.0001). Meta analysis of 17 studies, showing a dose-response relationship with higher levels of physical activity reducing risk of COVID-19 hospitalization. | ||
Jun 11 2022 |
et al., Sport Sciences for Health, doi:10.1007/s11332-022-00948-7 | The influence of physical activity level on the length of stay in hospital in older men survivors of COVID-19 |
| 80% lower ICU admission (p=0.06), 40% improvement (p=0.48), and 43% shorter hospitalization (p=0.03). Retrospective 39 hospitalized COVID-19 survivors >60 years old, showing shorter hospitalization for patients with active lifestyles before COVID-19 symptoms. | ||
May 13 2022 |
et al., Journal of Translational Medicine, doi:10.1186/s12967-022-03407-6 | Causal relationship between physical activity, leisure sedentary behaviors and COVID-19 risk: a Mendelian randomization study |
| UK Biobank Mendelian randomization study showing decreased risk of COVID-19 hospitalization with genetically predicted accelerometer-assessed physical activity, and increased risk with television watching. | ||
Apr 29 2022 |
et al., BMJ Open, doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057863 | Associations between physical activity prior to infection and COVID-19 disease severity and symptoms: results from the prospective Predi-COVID cohort study |
| 63% lower progression (p=0.05). Retrospective 452 participants in Luxembourg, showing lower risk of moderate cases with higher physical activity. | ||
Apr 17 2022 |
et al., Journal of Personalized Medicine, doi:10.3390/jpm12040645 | Exercise Preferences and Benefits in Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19 |
| 66% faster recovery (p<0.0001). Retrospective 66 hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Greece, showing significantly improved recovery with a history of exercise in unadjusted results. Exercise after hospitalization was also associated with lower levels of dyspnea one month.. | ||
Apr 13 2022 |
et al., medRxiv, doi:10.1101/2022.04.12.22273792 | Health behaviours the month prior to COVID-19 infection and the development of self-reported long COVID and specific long COVID symptoms: A longitudinal analysis of 1,811 UK adults |
| 38% lower PASC (p=0.16). Retrospective 1,811 COVID-19 patients in the UK, showing lower risk of self-reported long COVID with 3+ hours of exercise per week in the month before infection, without statistical significance (p=0.16). | ||
Apr 13 2022 |
et al., Reviews in Medical Virology, doi:10.1002/rmv.2349 | Baseline physical activity is associated with reduced mortality and disease outcomes in COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis |
| 53% lower mortality (p=0.001), 35% lower ICU admission (p=0.001), and 42% lower hospitalization (p=0.001). Meta analysis of 12 physical activity and COVID-19 studies, showing lower mortality, ICU admission, and hospitalization with physical activity. | ||
Mar 15 2022 |
et al., Clinical Practice & Epidemiology in Mental Health, doi:10.2174/17450179-v18-e2112231 | Exercise in Older Adults to Prevent Depressive Symptoms at the Time of Covid-19: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial with Follow-Up |
| 82% improvement (p=0.009). Exercise RCT with followup during COVID-19 lockdowns, showing lower risk of depression during lockdowns for the exercise group. | ||
Mar 14 2022 |
et al., Infectious Diseases and Therapy, doi:10.1007/s40121-021-00418-6 | Influence of Baseline Physical Activity as a Modifying Factor on COVID-19 Mortality: A Single-Center, Retrospective Study |
| 83% lower mortality (p=0.003). Retrospective 520 COVID-19 patients in Spain, showing significantly lower mortality with a history of physical activity. | ||
Mar 12 2022 |
et al., American Journal of Infection Control, doi:10.1016/j.ajic.2022.02.021 | Socio-demographic, lifestyle and health characteristics as predictors of self-reported Covid-19 history among older adults: 2006-2020 Health and Retirement Study |
| 43% fewer cases (p=0.05). Retrospective 2,830 people in the USA, showing lower risk of COVID-19 with a history of moderate/vigorous exercise. | ||
Feb 17 2022 |
et al., Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare, doi:10.2147/JMDH.S352753 | The Influence of Physical Activity on COVID-19 Prevention Among Quarantined Individuals: A Case–Control Study |
| 6% fewer cases (p=0.85). Retrospective 142 patients in Saudi Arabia, showing no significant difference in cases with physical activity. | ||
Feb 10 2022 |
et al., JMIR Mental Health, doi:10.2196/34645 | Risk Factors for COVID-19 in College Students Identified by Physical, Mental, and Social Health Reported During the Fall 2020 Semester: Observational Study Using the Roadmap App and Fitbit Wearable Sensors |
| 42% more cases (p=0.55). Retrospective survey of 1,997 college students in the USA, showing no significant difference in COVID-19 cases with exercise in unadjusted results. | ||
Feb 9 2022 |
et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine, doi:10.1136/bjsports-2021-105159 | Small steps, strong shield: directly measured, moderate physical activity in 65 361 adults is associated with significant protective effects from severe COVID-19 outcomes |
| 42% lower mortality (p<0.0001), 45% lower ventilation (p<0.0001), 41% lower ICU admission (p<0.0001), and 34% lower hospitalization (p<0.0001). Retrospective 65,361 COVID-19 patients in South Africa, showing significantly lower hospitalization, ICU admission, ventilation, and mortality with exercise. | ||
Dec 31 2021 |
et al., Mayo Clinic Proceedings: Innovations, Quality & Outcomes, doi:10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2021.08.011 | Association Between Accelerometer-Assessed Physical Activity and Severity of COVID-19 in UK Biobank |
| UK Biobank retrospective showing lower risk of severe COVID-19 with higher moderate to vigorous physical activity. Results are only provided for physical activity as a continuous variable. | ||
Dec 23 2021 |
et al., Journal of International Medical Research, doi:10.1177/03000605211064405 | Risk factors associated with hospitalization owing to COVID-19: a cross-sectional study in Palestine |
| 16% lower hospitalization (p=0.53). Retrospective 300 participants in Palestine, showing lower risk of hospitalization with physical activity, without statistical significance. | ||
Nov 30 2021 |
et al., Nature and Science of Sleep, doi:10.2147/NSS.S263488 | Reduced Sleep in the Week Prior to Diagnosis of COVID-19 is Associated with the Severity of COVID-19 |
| 47% lower severe cases (p=0.18) and 66% fewer cases (p=0.004). Retrospective 164 COVID-19 patients and 188 controls in China, showing lower risk of cases with regular exercise. | ||
Nov 3 2021 |
et al., BMJ Open, doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055003 | Associations of obesity, physical activity level, inflammation and cardiometabolic health with COVID-19 mortality: a prospective analysis of the UK Biobank cohort |
| 29% lower mortality (p=0.009). Prospective UK Biobank analysis, showing a history of low physical activity associated with COVID-19 mortality. | ||
Oct 30 2021 |
et al., Aging Clinical and Experimental Research, doi:10.1007/s40520-021-02006-7 | Associations of pre-pandemic levels of physical function and physical activity with COVID-19-like symptoms during the outbreak |
| 9% fewer symptomatic cases (p=0.71). Retrospective 904 patients in Sweden, showing higher risk of COVID-19-like symptoms with poor muscle strength. Risk was slightly higher for physical inactivity, without statistical significance. | ||
Oct 23 2021 |
et al., Aging Clinical and Experimental Research, doi:10.1007/s40520-021-01991-z | Frailty but not sarcopenia nor malnutrition increases the risk of developing COVID-19 in older community-dwelling adults |
| 74% fewer cases (p=0.03). Analysis of 241 adults >65yo in Belgium, showing lower risk of COVID-19 with a history of physical activity. | ||
Oct 19 2021 |
et al., International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, doi:10.1186/s12966-021-01198-5 | Cardiorespiratory fitness and lifestyle on severe COVID-19 risk in 279,455 adults: a case control study |
| 48% lower severe cases (p=0.02). Retrospective 857 severe COVID-19 cases and matched controls in Sweden, showing lower risk of severe COVID-19 with higher cardiorespiratory fitness. | ||
Sep 30 2021 |
, G., Journal of Sport and Health Science, doi:10.1016/j.jshs.2021.03.008 | Physical activity and its relationship with COVID-19 cases and deaths: Analysis of U.S. counties |
| Analysis of US counties showing physical activity levels negatively associated with COVID-19 cases and deaths. | ||
Sep 30 2021 |
et al., Infection and Drug Resistance, doi:10.2147/IDR.S331470 | Lifestyle and Comorbidity-Related Risk Factors of Severe and Critical COVID-19 Infection: A Comparative Study Among Survived COVID-19 Patients in Bangladesh |
| 19% lower severe cases (p=0.04). Retrospective 1,500 COVID+ patients in Bangladesh, showing lower risk of severe cases with regular exercise in unadjusted results. | ||
Sep 30 2021 |
et al., Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, doi:10.1016/j.jsams.2021.05.011 | Association of physical activity levels and the prevalence of COVID-19-associated hospitalization |
| 73% lower ventilation (p=0.07) and 34% lower hospitalization (p=0.05). Retrospective survey of 938 COVID-19 recovered patients in Brazil, showing lower hospitalization with physical activity. NCT04396353. | ||
Sep 22 2021 |
et al., Middle East Journal of Rehabilitation and Health Studies, doi:10.5812/mejrh.114607 | Evaluation of the Relationship Between Daily Physical Activity Level and Laboratory Factors and the Length of Hospitalization in Patients with COVID-19 |
| 61% faster recovery (p=0.0001). Retrospective 71 hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Iran, showing faster recovery with a history of moderate to high physical exercise. Exercise was assessed during the last seven days when patients may already have had COVID-19 symptoms. .. | ||
Sep 21 2021 |
et al., BMJ Open, doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2021-052025 | Predictors of incident SARS-CoV-2 infections in an international prospective cohort study |
| 47% fewer cases (p=0.4). Prospective survey analysis of 28,575 people in 99 countries, showing a lower risk of COVID-19 with a exercise, without statistical significance. | ||
Sep 18 2021 |
et al., Nutrients, doi:10.3390/nu13093258 | Single and Combinative Impacts of Healthy Eating Behavior and Physical Activity on COVID-19-like Symptoms among Outpatients: A Multi-Hospital and Health Center Survey |
| 20% fewer symptomatic cases (p<0.0001). Analysis of 3,947 participants in Vietnam, showing significantly lower risk of COVID-19-like symptoms with physical activity and with a healthy diet. The combination of being physically active and eating healthy reduced risk further compa.. | ||
Aug 31 2021 |
et al., Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, doi:10.1016/j.bbi.2021.04.022 | Lifestyle risk factors and infectious disease mortality, including COVID-19, among middle aged and older adults: Evidence from a community-based cohort study in the United Kingdom |
| 30% lower mortality (p=0.005). Retrospective 468,569 adults in the UK, showing significantly lower COVID-19 mortality with physical activity. | ||
Aug 23 2021 |
et al., Journal of Epidemiology and Global Health, doi:10.1007/s44197-021-00006-4 | Risk Factors for SARS-CoV-2 Infection Severity in Abu Dhabi |
| 98% lower mortality (p=0.05). Retrospective 234 COVID-19 cases in the United Arab Emirates, showing lower risk of mortality with increased physical activity. | ||
Aug 12 2021 |
et al., Journal of Sport and Health Science, doi:10.1016/j.jshs.2021.08.001 | No independent associations between physical activity and clinical outcomes among hospitalized patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 |
| 30% lower mortality (p=0.27), 20% lower ventilation (p=0.21), and 10% lower ICU admission (p=0.46). Prospective analysis of 209 hospitalized COVID-19 patients, showing no significant difference in COVID-19 outcomes with physical activity. Mortality, ventilation, and ICU results are only provided for activity as a continuous variable. | ||
Aug 11 2021 |
et al., Journal of Sports Sciences, doi:10.1080/02640414.2021.1964721 | Muscle strength explains the protective effect of physical activity against COVID-19 hospitalization among adults aged 50 years and older |
| 52% lower hospitalization (p=0.02). Retrospective 3,139 adults >50 in Europe, with 66 COVID-19 hospitalizations, showing lower risk of hospitalization with higher physical activity and with higher muscle strength. Note that model 2 includes muscle strength which is correlat.. | ||
Aug 6 2021 |
et al., Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, doi:10.1002/jcsm.12738 | Muscle strength is associated with COVID‐19 hospitalization in adults 50 years of age or older |
| 36% lower hospitalization (p=0.02). Retrospective 3,600 adults showing that higher grip strength was associated with a lower risk of COVID-19 hospitalization. | ||
Jul 22 2021 |
et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine, doi:10.1136/bjsports-2021-104203 | Physical activity and the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, severe COVID-19 illness and COVID-19 related mortality in South Korea: a nationwide cohort study |
| 74% lower mortality (p=0.05), 58% lower severe cases (p=0.03), and 16% fewer cases (p=0.03). Retrospective 212,768 adults in South Korea, showing lower risk of COVID-19 cases, severity, and mortality with physical activity. Notably, results for aerobic and muscle strengthening activities combined were much better than results for.. | ||
Jul 9 2021 |
et al., Food Science & Nutrition, doi:10.1002/fsn3.2458 | Nutritional and lifestyle changes required for minimizing the recovery period in home quarantined COVID-19 patients of Punjab, Pakistan |
| Survey of 80 recovered COVID-19 patients in Pakistan, showing faster recovery with higher physical activity before infection. | ||
Jul 5 2021 |
et al., BMJ Open, doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051316 | Fitness, strength and severity of COVID-19: a prospective register study of 1 559 187 Swedish conscripts |
| 50% lower mortality (p=0.005), 40% lower ICU admission (p=0.0003), and 27% lower hospitalization (p<0.0001). Prospective study of 1,559,187 men in Sweden with cardiorespiratory fitness levels measured on military conscription, showing high cardiorespiratory fitness associated with lower risk of COVID-19 hospitalization, ICU admission, and death. | ||
Jul 5 2021 |
et al., European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, doi:10.1093/eurjpc/zwaa135 | Exercise rehabilitation associates with lower mortality and hospitalisation in cardiovascular disease patients with COVID-19 |
| 76% lower mortality (p<0.0001) and 51% lower hospitalization (p<0.0001). PSM retrospective 643 COVID-19 patients with cardiovascular disease undergoing exercise rehabilitation within 3 months of diagnosis, showing significantly lower re-hospitalization and mortality with exercise rehabilitation. | ||
Jul 4 2021 |
et al., International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, doi:10.3390/ijerph18137158 | A Possible Preventive Role of Physically Active Lifestyle during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic; Might Regular Cold-Water Swimming and Exercise Reduce the Symptom Severity of COVID-19? |
| 30% fewer moderate/severe cases (p=0.1) and 9% more cases (p=0.36). Retrospective 1,544 participants in Slovakia, showing a lower risk of more severe COVID-19 for physically active participants, without statistical significance. | ||
Jul 1 2021 |
et al., Journal of Physical Activity and Health, doi:10.1123/jpah.2020-0817 | Does Higher Self-Reported Cardiorespiratory Fitness Reduce the Odds of Hospitalization From COVID-19? |
| 6% higher hospitalization (p=0.6) and 35% lower severe cases (p=0.3). Retrospective 263 COVID+ patients, showing lower hospitalization with higher self-reported cardiorespiratory fitness, but no significant differences for physical activity. Participants in the study were healthier and more fit than the gen.. | ||
Jun 23 2021 |
et al., Frontiers in Immunology, doi:10.3389/fimmu.2021.594356 | Vitamin D and Exercise Are Major Determinants of Natural Killer Cell Activity, Which Is Age- and Gender-Specific |
| Analysis of 2,095 patients in South Korea, showing exercise and vitamin D associated with improved natural killer cell activity. [Graydon] showed that a lower frequency of natural killer cells was associated with symptomatic COVID-19 infe.. | ||
Jun 20 2021 |
et al., Therapeutic Advances in Respiratory Disease, doi:10.1177/17534666211025221 | Does pre-existent physical inactivity have a role in the severity of COVID-19? |
| 91% lower mortality (p=0.09) and 70% lower severe cases (p=0.03). Retrospective 164 COVID-19 patients in China, showing physical inactivity associated with an increased risk of severe COVID-19. | ||
Jun 17 2021 |
et al., PLOS ONE, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0253120 | Predictors of incident viral symptoms ascertained in the era of COVID-19 |
| 42% fewer symptomatic cases (p<0.0001). Prospective survey based study with 14,335 participants, showing lower risk of viral symptoms with regular exercise. | ||
Jun 15 2021 |
et al., Research in Sports Medicine, doi:10.1080/15438627.2021.1937166 | Protective role of physical activity patterns prior to COVID-19 confinement with the severity/duration of respiratory pathologies consistent with COVID-19 symptoms in Spanish populations |
| 76% lower hospitalization (p=0.05). Retrospective 420 people in Spain, showing lower risk of COVID-19 hospitalization with a history of physical activity. | ||
Jun 7 2021 |
et al., British Journal of Nutrition, doi:10.1017/S0007114521001926 | Beyond probiotic legend: ESSAP gut microbiota health score to delineate SARS-COV-2 infection severity |
| 46% fewer moderate/severe cases (p=0.11). Analysis of 200 mild and moderate COVID-19 outpatients showing an association between higher ESSAP scores (measuring exercise, sugar and prebiotic consumption, sleep, and antibiotic use) and milder COVID-19 disease. Authors find increased.. | ||
May 19 2021 |
et al., BMJ Open, doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044052 | Clinical, behavioural and social factors associated with racial disparities in COVID-19 patients from an integrated healthcare system in Georgia: a retrospective cohort study |
| 20% lower hospitalization (p=0.02). Retrospective 5,712 COVID-19 patients in the USA, showing higher risk of COVID-19 hospitalization with a history of physical inactivity. | ||
May 5 2021 |
et al., PLOS ONE, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0250508 | The association of estimated cardiorespiratory fitness with COVID-19 incidence and mortality: A cohort study |
| 63% lower mortality (p=0.02) and 23% fewer cases (p=0.2). Prospective study of 2,690 adults in the UK Biobank showing lower cardiorespiritory fitness associated with COVID-19 mortality. | ||
Apr 13 2021 |
et al., British Journal of Sports Medicine, doi:10.1136/bjsports-2021-104080 | Physical inactivity is associated with a higher risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes: a study in 48 440 adult patients |
| 59% lower mortality (p=0.005), 42% lower ICU admission (p=0.006), and 53% lower hospitalization (p<0.0001). Retrospective 48,440 COVID-19 patients in the USA, showing significantly lower mortality, ICU admission, and hospitalization with exercise. | ||
Apr 6 2021 |
et al., Journal of Clinical Medicine, doi:10.3390/jcm10071539 | Physical Activity and the Risk of COVID-19 Infection and Mortality: A Nationwide Population-Based Case-Control Study |
| 53% lower mortality (p=0.01) and 10% fewer cases (p<0.0001). Retrospective 6,288 COVID+ patients and 125,772 matched controls in South Korea, showing significantly lower risk of COVID-19 infection and mortality with higher physical activity. | ||
Mar 30 2021 |
et al., Thorax, doi:10.1136/thoraxjnl-2021-217487 | Risk factors for developing COVID-19: a population-based longitudinal study (COVIDENCE UK) |
| 17% fewer cases (p=0.18). Prospective survey-based study with 15,227 people in the UK, showing reduced risk of COVID-19 cases with lower impact physical activity. | ||
Feb 26 2021 |
et al., International Journal of Obesity, doi:10.1038/s41366-021-00771-z | Obesity, walking pace and risk of severe COVID-19 and mortality: analysis of UK Biobank |
| 45% lower mortality (p=0.001) and 47% lower severe cases (p<0.0001). UK Biobank retrospective 412,596 people, showing severe COVID-19 and COVID-19 mortality inversely associated with self-reported walking pace. | ||
Feb 4 2021 |
et al., Journal of Public Health, doi:10.1007/s10389-020-01468-9 | Relationship between physical activity, healthy lifestyle and COVID-19 disease severity; a cross-sectional study |
| 69% lower severe cases (p=0.05). Retrospective 206 patients in Iran, showing COVID-19 disease severity associated with lower physical activity. | ||
Feb 3 2021 |
et al., BMC Medical Genomics, doi:10.1186/s12920-021-00887-1 | Modifiable lifestyle factors and severe COVID-19 risk: a Mendelian randomisation study |
| 81% lower severe cases (p=0.02) and 56% lower hospitalization (p=0.07). Mendelian randomization study showing lower risk of severe COVID-19 with physical activity. | ||
Jan 22 2021 |
et al., European Journal of Clinical Investigation, doi:10.1111/eci.13490 | High fitness levels, frequent sauna bathing and risk of pneumonia in a cohort study: Are there potential implications for COVID‐19? |
| 25% fewer cases (p=0.005). Prospective study of 2,275 middle-aged Finnish men showing significantly lower risk of future pneumonia with a combination of high cardiorespiratory fitness and frequent sauna bathing compared to each exposure alone. High cardiorespirator.. | ||
Dec 6 2020 |
et al., Journal of Global Health, doi:10.7189/jogh-10-020514 | Physical activity and COVID-19: an observational and Mendelian randomisation study |
| 26% lower mortality (p=0.17) and 18% fewer cases (p=0.01). UK Biobank retrospective showing significantly lower COVID-19 cases with objectively measured physical activity. | ||
Dec 1 2020 |
et al., Journal of Physical Activity and Health, doi:10.1123/jpah.2020-0392 | Regular Sports Participation as a Potential Predictor of Better Clinical Outcome in Adult Patients With COVID-19: A Large Cross-Sectional Study |
| 89% lower mortality (p=0.08) and 28% lower hospitalization (p=0.04). Retrospective 4,694 COVID-19 patients in Iran, showing lower risk of hospitalization and mortality with regular sports participation. | ||
Nov 30 2020 |
et al., World Allergy Organization Journal, doi:10.1016/j.waojou.2020.100476 | Enhancing innate immunity against virus in times of COVID-19: Trying to untangle facts from fictions |
| Review of various interventions that may enhance innate immunity against respiratory viruses like SARS-CoV-2. The interventions are divided into lifestyle factors (exercise, forest walking, sleep, vitamins/supplements), non-specific immun.. | ||
Nov 19 2020 |
et al., BMJ Open, doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2020-040402 | Modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for COVID-19, and comparison to risk factors for influenza and pneumonia: results from a UK Biobank prospective cohort study |
| 35% lower hospitalization (p=0.007). UK Biobank retrospective 235,928 participants using walking pace as a proxy for physical fitness, showing lower risk of COVID-19 hospitalization with an average vs. slow walking pace. | ||
Nov 5 2020 |
et al., PLOS ONE, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0241540 | The impact of individual lifestyle and status on the acquisition of COVID-19: A case—Control study |
| 105% more cases (p=0.0003). Case control study in China with 105 cases and 210 matched controls, showing COVID-19 cases associated with physical activity ≥5 times per week. Authors note that people may choose gyms for exercise in winter, leading to higher exposure r.. | ||
Oct 31 2020 |
et al., Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, doi:10.1016/j.jbmt.2021.07.012 | The effect of aerobic exercise on immune biomarkers and symptoms severity and progression in patients with COVID-19: A randomized control trial |
| Small RCT with 30 mild/moderate COVID-19 patients, 15 performing 2 weeks of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, showing decreased severity (WURSS) and improved immune markers with exercise. | ||
Oct 26 2020 |
et al., Pulmonologiya, doi:10.18093/0869-0189-2020-30-5-553-560 | COVID-19 in individuals adapted to aerobic exercise |
| 98% lower severe cases (p=0.007). Retrospective 293 COVID+ patients in Russia, showing lower risk of severe COVID-19 for individuals who regularly practice aerobic training in unadjusted results. | ||
Oct 21 2020 |
et al., Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, doi:10.1016/j.jsams.2020.10.009 | Running behavior and symptoms of respiratory tract infection during the COVID-19 pandemic |
| Analysis of 2,586 participants of a running injury prevention RCT in the Netherlands, showing lower risk of COVID-19 symptoms with interval training and increased training hours, without statistical significance. | ||
Oct 10 2020 |
et al., Mayo Clinic Proceedings, doi:10.1016/j.mayocp.2020.10.003 | Inverse Relationship of Maximal Exercise Capacity to Hospitalization Secondary to Coronavirus Disease 2019 |
| 74% lower hospitalization (p=0.001). Retrospective 246 COVID-19 patients in the USA, showing the risk of hospitalization inversely associated with maximal exercise capacity. Adjusted results are only provided for MET as a continuous variable. | ||
Jul 31 2020 |
et al., Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, doi:10.1016/j.bbi.2020.05.059 | Lifestyle risk factors, inflammatory mechanisms, and COVID-19 hospitalization: A community-based cohort study of 387,109 adults in UK |
| 28% lower hospitalization (p=0.0004). UK Biobank retrospective analysis of 387,109 people, showing lower risk of COVID-19 hospitalization with physical activity. | ||
Oct 31 2018 |
et al., The Lancet Global Health, doi:10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7 | Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants |
| Meta analysis of 358 surveys showing the prevalence of insufficient physical activity around the world. Prevalence in high-income countries was over twice as high, and has increased over time. | ||
References
Fernandez et al., Intrahospital supervised exercise training improves survival rate among hypertensive COVID-19 patients, Journal of Applied Physiology, doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.00544.2022.
Please send us corrections, updates, or comments.
c19early involves the extraction of 100,000+ datapoints from
thousands of papers. Community updates
help ensure high accuracy.
Treatments and other interventions are complementary.
All practical, effective, and safe
means should be used based on risk/benefit analysis.
No treatment or intervention is 100% available and effective for all current
and future variants.
We do not provide medical advice. Before taking any medication,
consult a qualified physician who can provide personalized advice and details
of risks and benefits based on your medical history and situation. IMA and WCH
provide treatment protocols.
Thanks for your feedback! Please search before submitting papers and note
that studies are listed under the date they were first available, which may be
the date of an earlier preprint.