Lockdown has given the nation a new desire to exercise, with 60% of the population intending to be more active as restrictions are eased.
Throughout the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, we’ve been measuring activity levels and attitudes towards activity through a survey conducted by Savanta ComRes.
The latest figures, taken from data collected on 19-22 June, show activity levels have dropped slightly compared to the initial phase of lockdown, as many schools, shops and workplaces reopen.
Pre-coronavirus, our latest Active Lives Adult Survey showed activity levels to be at a record high, with 28.6 million adults doing at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a week.
However, during lockdown lives have inevitably changed and not everyone has met that level of activity – with 52% feeling guilty for not doing more.
New habits have been formed though, with walking, running and cycling being the most popular ways to keep active and 62% of people intending to keep walking and cycling for everyday journeys as restrictions ease.
“We have a real opportunity as we begin to emerge from lockdown into a new normal to build on the good habits people have created, including how they have been able to prioritise their health by being active during the pandemic,” said Lisa O’Keefe, our executive director of insight.
“It will be a challenge as restrictions ease, and we move closer to a new normal – the challenges we had before lockdown in getting people active will once again be there.”
Keeping the nation active has been one of our two priorities throughout the coronavirus crisis, and this has been aided by government guidance, with 46% of people feeling encouraged to exercise by official advice.
However, with 32% of people admitting it will be a challenge to maintain their lockdown activity levels as restrictions ease, we’re aware this is an issue to tackle.
This figure was particularly high for people with children, those currently furloughed or on reduced hours, those aged 16-34, Asian people, those with caring responsibilities and those in the ABC1 social grade, as they anticipate increasing pressure on their time.
