The Effects of Physical Activity on Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic: a Systematic Review

Introduction: Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic affected countries worldwide and has changed peoples’ lives. A reduction in physical activity and an increase in mental health problems were observed. Thus, this systematic review aims to examine the association between physical activity and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: : In January 2021, a search was applied to PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Eligibility criteria included cross-sectional, prospective, longitudinal study design and studies published in English; outcomes included physical activity and mental health (e.g., depressive symptoms, anxiety, positive and negative effects, well-being). Results: : Nineteen studies were included in this review. Overall, the studies suggested that higher physical activity is associated with higher well-being, quality of life as well as lower depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress, independently of age. There was no consensus for the optimal physical activity level for mitigating negative mental symptoms, neither for the frequency nor for the type of physical activity. Women were more vulnerable to mental health changes and men were more susceptive to physical activity changes. Conclusion: Physical activity seems to be a good and effective choice to mitigate the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health. Public health policies should alert for alternatives to increment physical activity during the stay-at-home orders in many countries.