THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON HEALTHY HABITS AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING OF CHILEAN FEMALE HANDBALL PLAYERS

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on healthy habits in a sample made up of Chilean international elite female handball players. Participants filled in an online survey regarding their physical activity levels, eating attitudes, sleep quality and psychological well-being, twice. The survey was sent within four weeks after mobility restrictions were imposed in Chile, and 16 weeks later, just after the easing of those restrictions began. A total of 18 female handball players who were competing in senior, junior or juvenile categories were analyzed. The obtained data indicated that physical activity levels decreased significantly, as well as psychological well-being. No significant changes were observed in the eating attitudes and sleep quality, although a significant reduction of sleep problems was detected. Sociodemographic and sport-related characteristics did not seem to produce a differential effect on the variables assessed.