Impact of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on cardiac rehabilitation participation and behaviours in the United Kingdom

Richard P. Kirwan*, Fatima Perez de Heredia, Deaglan McCullough, THOMAS BUTLER, Ian G. Davies

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticle (journal)peer-review

10 Citations (Scopus)
21 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Background
COVID-19 lockdown measures led to the suspension of centre-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR). We aimed to describe the impact of lockdown on CR behaviours and perceptions of efficacy in a sample of CR participants.

Methods
An online survey was conducted amongst CR participants from May to October 2020, COVID-19-related lockdown restrictions. Anthropometric data, participant-determined levels of motivation and self-perceived efficacy, CR practices etc., pre- and post-lockdown, were collected.

Results
The probability of practicing CR in public gyms and hospitals decreased 15-fold (47.2% pre-, 5.6% post-lockdown; OR[95% CI]: 0.065[0.013; 0.318], p<0.001), and 34-fold (47.2% pre, 2.8% post; OR[95% CI]: 0.029[0.004; 0.223], p<0.001), respectively. Amongst participants, 79.5% indicated that their CR goals had changed and were 78% less likely to engage in CR for socialization after lockdown (47.2% pre, 16.7% post; OR[95% CI]: 0.220[0.087; 0.555]; p=0.002). The probability of receiving in-person supervision decreased by 90% (94.4% pre, 16.7% post; OR[95% CI]: 0.011[0.002; 0.056]), while participants were almost 7 times more likely to use online supervision (11.1% pre, 44.4% post; OR[95% CI]: 6.824[2.450; 19.002]) (both p<0.001). Fifty percent indicated that their enjoyment of CR was lower than before lockdown and 27.8% reported they would be less likely to continue with CR in the newer format.

Conclusions
Lockdown was associated with considerable changes in how CR was practiced, motivation levels and willingness to continue with CR. Further research is warranted to develop and improve strategies to implement in times when individuals cannot attend CR in person and not only during pandemics.
Original languageEnglish
Article number67
JournalBMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation
Volume14
Early online date13 Apr 2022
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 13 Apr 2022

Keywords

  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Physical activity
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Coronary heart disease
  • Health behaviour
  • Exercise

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