Abstract
BACKGROUND: Physical Activity (PA) is bodily movement that involves energy output from the muscles and is associated with numerous health benefits. However, with the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic on March 11, 2020, stay-at-home orders and public health measures led to a decreased trend in PA levels throughout the Canadian population. As restrictions began to ease in British Columbia (BC), gym and recreation facilities re-opened on May 19, 2020, under new public health safety protocols. This study explored whether gym and/or recreational facility attendance among regular users was impacted by public health safety or financial factors during COVID-19. METHODS: A self-administered online survey was distributed using an online forum website (Reddit) and posted in a health clinic with a QR code. They survey included demographic questions as well as questions regarding COVID-19 safety protocols in gyms and recreation facilities. Nominal data was collected, and the Pearson's Chi-Square test was used to determine if associations existed between returning to fitness facilities during COVID-19 public health safety or financial factors. RESULTS: Among the 303 responses collected, up to 270 were suitable to be included in the analyses. A statistically significant association was found between all three sub hypotheses for public health safety factors (users disinfecting equipment before and after use, physical distancing, and mask use) and returning to the gym and/or recreation facility (p= 0.00). Two of the five sub hypotheses for financial factors revealed significant results; income loss (p= 0.02) and going to the gym as a priority expense (p= 0.00). No significant results were found with the other three hypotheses; employment status (p= 0.10), hourly wage (p= 0.13), and gym membership or drop in fee increase (p= 0.15). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that regular gym users' decision to return to the gym and/or recreation facilities was influenced by whether appropriate COVID-19 safety measures were implemented to provide a safe exercise environment. The majority of regular gym users chose to return to the gym regardless of having experienced a loss in income and indicated fitness as a priority expense, revealing the importance of physical activity for their health. The results from this study can be used to help support the current COVID-19 safety measures in gyms and recreation facilities and to prevent the transmission of various diseases post pandemic. Furthermore, a gym membership 2or drop-in fee at a reduced rate can be introduced for the lower income individuals and families experiencing financial stress due to COVID-19.