Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 14, 2026
Physical Activity Measurement in Children Accepting Table Tennis Training
Published on: July 27, 2022
Physical activity, sedentary time, and associated factors in post-COVID-19 condition: a cross-sectional study
Anna Törnberg1, Anna Svensson-Raskh2, Lucian Bezuidenhout3
1Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden; Medical Unit Allied Health Professionals, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. anna.tornberg@ki.se.
Objective:
This study aimed to explore physical activity and sedentary time in adults with post-COVID-19 condition, and to identify associated factors.
Design:
Cross-sectional, observational study.
Subjects/Patients:
Adults with post-COVID-19 condition.
Methods:
Physical activity and sedentary time were measured using activity monitors alongside assessment of potential associated factors.
Results:
Among 159 participants (mean age: 50 years, women: 64%), 36% took < 5,000 steps, 60% spent < 22 min in brisk walking, and 57% spent ≥ 8 h sedentarily daily. Additionally, 29% exhibited low activity combined with prolonged sedentary time. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and palpitations were associated with taking fewer steps, while paraesthesia, greater distance in the 6-min walk test, previous activity levels, and self-rated health were associated with taking more steps. Palpitations were associated with less brisk walking, whereas greater distance in the 6-min walk test and lung function were associated with more brisk walking. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome was associated with increased sedentary time and with exhibiting low activity combined with prolonged sedentary time.
Conclusion:
A substantial proportion of individuals with post-COVID-19 condition exhibit low physical activity and prolonged sedentary behaviour, posing potential health risks. The associated factors underscore the importance of comprehensive assessments to inform safe, individualized interventions.
