Physical Activity and Anxiety During COVID-19 in Tanzania
Author Information
Author(s): Ndabi Joyce Sifa, Simwanza Alfa, Chukwuorji JohnBosco C., Tladi Dawn, Muomah Rosemary C., Nwonyi Sampson K., Tay Doris Akosua, Joachim Dale, Malete Leapetswe, Adamba Clement, Nyawornota Vida Korleki, Nyanynofio Oscar Nyanyo, Donkor Samuel Kofi, Ocansey Reginald
Primary Institution: University of Dares Salaam, Tanzania
Hypothesis
Higher levels of physical activity (vigorous and moderate) will be significantly associated with lower anxiety scores.
Conclusion
Vigorous physical activity is significantly associated with lower anxiety levels among Tanzanian adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Supporting Evidence
- Vigorous physical activity was significantly associated with lower anxiety.
- Moderate physical activity showed weaker effects on anxiety.
- Walking and sedentary behavior were not significantly associated with anxiety.
- Health status did not moderate the relationship between physical activity and anxiety.
- Subgroup analyses indicated stronger effects of vigorous physical activity among men and younger adults.
Takeaway
Doing more vigorous exercise can help people feel less anxious, especially during tough times like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methodology
Data were collected using the IPAQ-SF and GAD-7 scale from 213 adults.
Potential Biases
Self-reported measures may lead to overestimation or underestimation of physical activity levels.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and self-reported data may introduce bias.
Participant Demographics
Mean age of participants was 28.06 years, with 54% male.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002
Confidence Interval
−0.52 to −0.12
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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