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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.
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Feb 7 |
Exercise reduces COVID-19 risk: real-time meta-analysis of 68 studies (Version 43) | |
| 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.. | ||
Oct 15 2025 |
et al., Frontiers in Microbiology, doi:10.3389/fmicb.2025.1652124 | Host factors associated with respiratory particle emission and virus presence within respiratory particles: a systematic review |
| Systematic review of 44 studies examining host factors associated with respiratory particle emission and virus presence in exhaled particles. Fine respiratory particles (<5 μm) were consistently associated with older age (16 studies), phy.. | ||
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 long COVID (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 long COVID (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 long COVID (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 long COVID (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 long COVID (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 long COVID (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