EFFECTS OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON LIFESTYLE

AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVEL AMONG

YOUNG ADULTS OF DELHI NCR

PROJECT REPORT SUBMITTED TO THE INDIRA GANDHI OPEN

UNIVERSITY IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT FOR THE DEGREE OF
MASTERS IN ANTHROPOLOGY (MAAN)

SUBMITTED BY: NEHA RAWAT

ENROLMENT NO: 194506083
PROGRAMME CODE- MAAN
COURSE CODE: MANI-003

Regional Centre- DELHI 1

Study Centre Code: 07175
Study Centre: Dyal Singh College
Mobile Number- 8860638317
Email ID- nehaarawat1998@gmail.com

UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF:

DR. MARY GRACE D TUNGDIM

May, 2023
IGNOU ID CARD

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 CERTIFICATE OF ORIGINALITY

This is to certify that the project titled “EFFECTS OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON

LIFESTYLE AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVEL AMONG YOUNG ADULTS OF
DELHI NCR” submitted to Indira Gandhi National Open University in partial fulfillment of the
requirement for the award of Masters in Anthropology (MAAN) is an original work carried out
by NEHA RAWAT (Enrollment number: 194506083).

The matter embodied in this project is genuine work done by the student and has not been
submitted whether to this University or to any other University/ Institute for the fulfillment of the
requirement of any course of study.

Name: Mary grace D Tungdim

Address of the supervisor: IGNOU study centre, Dyal Singh College, Delhi.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I feel indebted to my guide Dr. Mary Grace ‘D’ Tungdim for her supervision in the completion
of the project entitled “EFFECTS OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON LIFESTYLE AND
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVEL AMONG YOUNG ADULTS OF DELHI NCR”. The
present work could be completed only because of the able guidance of my guide. I am thankful
to her for giving me time and effort whenever I needed.

I would also like to thank my father and my friends for their support and help in finishing this
project. Lastly, I am thankful to all the respondents and all those who assisted me by supplying
the requisite information towards the completion of the questionnaire there by enable me to
collect the relevant data.

NEHA RAWAT
ENROLMENT NO: 194506083

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APPROVAL OF SYNOPSIS

5
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page nos.

CERTIFICATE OF ORIGINALITY 3

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 4

APPROVAL OF SYNOPSIS 5

Chapter 1- INTRODUCTION 7-10

Chapter 2- REVIEW OF LITERATURE 11-15

Chapter 3-RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 16-17

Chapter 4- RESULTS 18-31

Chapter 5- DISCUSSION 32-33

Chapter 6- CONCLUSION 34

REFERENCES 35-37

Annexure 38-42

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INTRODUCTION
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which originated in the Wuhan province of China, was
declared as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (W.H.O) on March 11, 2020.
To limit the spread of the virus and minimize its negative impact, each country developed its
strategy to fight the virus through the implementation of measures including cancellation of mass
gatherings, closure of public restaurants, transport, etc., ‘stay-at-home’ orders=‘lockdown’ and
protective mask use in public spaces. These measures represented a significant change in
everyday life and affected individuals’ usual normal life and daily routines. Since then it has
spread beyond borders and affected the lifestyle behaviour of people. This pandemic not only
adversely affected the physical health of individuals, but also brought forth significant changes in
their lifestyle.

The first cases of COVID-19 in India were reported on 30 January 2020 in three towns of Kerala,
among three Indian medical students who had returned from Wuhan, the epicenter of the
pandemic. Lockdowns were announced in Kerala on 23 March, and in the rest of the country on
25 March. Movement outside the house was permitted only for specific reasons that include
moving to or from the workplace, shopping for food or medicine, visiting a doctor or assisting a
person in need of help and among other reasons. Needless to say, this pandemic has magnified
this dearth by diverting its focus on specific medical conditions, neglecting other issues related to
lifestyle behaviour. . Health and wellbeing are the priorities of any nation, therefore India went
through perhaps the strictest lockdown in 5 phases following partial-unlock down along with
recommendations like restrictions on freedom of movement, social and physical distancing, self-
isolation, and quarantine measures, etc., to curb down the disease spread.

The country faced an additional burden on the health care system because of the rapid increase in
COVID-19. The explosive increase in its prevalence has been found to be associated with
Diabetes mellitus (DM), which has been a result of the adoption of unhealthy lifestyles. A few of
the major modifiable risk factors for many non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including DM,
are physical inactivity and unhealthy diets. Many NCDs, such as coronary artery disease,
hypertension, DM, breast and colon cancer, can be prevented and treated by regular physical

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 activity. Because of the strong association between physical inactivity and NCDs, the World
Health Organization (WHO), by 2030, has agreed to a global target of 15% reduction in physical
inactivity, so as to accelerate the prevention and treatment of NCDs. Additionally, the COVID-
19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, pandemic has caused a devastating threat to the health,
economy, and lifestyle. Several studies have showed that the aged populations have a higher risk
of morbidity and mortality from COVID-19 because of an increased rate of hospitalization.

The Covid lockdown has brought forced isolation to many. There were youngsters living
away from their families, trapped in small apartments with awful cooking skills.
Many senior citizens living by themselves found companionship by meeting up with age
mates in neighbourhood parks. They find themselves abandoned, deprived of social
interaction and also the occasional visits by their children. Also, lack of playtime with
peers has also made children irritable and edgy. On the other hand, there are people with
dysfunctional family dynamics, such as domineering, abusive or alcoholic partners,
siblings or parents which makes staying home a period of trial. Incidence of suicide and
physical abuse against women has shown a worldwide increase. Heightened anxiety and
depression also affect a person’s immune system, making them more susceptible to
illness. Owing to social disengagement and decreased professional commitments, the sleep
pattern is expected to improve in the population. Regular physical activity undertaken by people
has both physical and mental health benefits which might also have been affected by territorial
restrictions.
Young adults have been affected by this pandemic in various ways. Some potential effects of the
pandemic on their lifestyle and physical activity levels:

1. Increased Sedentary Behavior: Due to lockdowns and work-from-home situations, many young
adults have had to spend long hours sitting at their desks or on their couches. This has resulted in
increased sedentary behavior, which can have negative effects on their physical and mental
health.
2. Disruption of Exercise Routine: With gyms and parks closed for extended periods of time, young
adults have found it challenging to maintain their exercise routines. This has led to a decrease in
physical activity levels, which can impact their physical health and overall well-being.
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3. Changes in Eating Habits: The pandemic has caused significant changes in young adults' eating
habits. Some have resorted to comfort foods and snacking due to stress and anxiety, while others
have struggled with finding healthy food options due to restricted access to grocery stores and
restaurants.
4. Mental Health Challenges: The pandemic has also taken a toll on young adults' mental health.
The stress, anxiety, and uncertainty associated with the pandemic have led to a decrease in
motivation and energy, which can further impact their physical activity levels and overall well-
being.
5. Increased Screen Time: With remote work, online classes, and social distancing measures, young
adults have also increased their screen time significantly. This can have negative effects on their
physical health, including eye strain, headaches, and disrupted sleep patterns.

During the pandemic, many adults experienced a change in their sleep schedule due to the
disruption of their daily routines. This included working from home, changes in childcare
arrangements, and increased stress levels, which all affected their ability to sleep on a regular
schedule. Adults spent more time in front of screens during the pandemic, whether for work,
socializing, or entertainment. This increased screen time can negatively impact the quality and
quantity of sleep, especially when used close to bedtime.

During the pandemic, many individuals had reduced access to healthy foods due to supply chain
disruptions and the closure of some grocery stores and markets. This lead to a decrease in the
intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are essential for maintaining a healthy diet.
Due to restrictions on dining out, many adults increased their use of delivery and takeout
services, which could lead to a higher intake of fast food and processed foods. But it has been
seen that some individuals turned up in cooking and home-cooked meals during the pandemic
due to having more time at home. This could lead to healthier dietary habits, as individuals may
be more likely to incorporate fresh produce and whole foods into their meals.

Many people led sedentary lifestyles before the pandemic, which could lead to weight gain,
decreased cardiovascular health, and weakened immune systems. Due to lockdowns and social
distancing measures, many people have reduced their physical activity levels. This lack of

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exercise can lead to weight gain, decreased cardiovascular health, and weakened immune
system. Many people thus delayed seeking medical care for chronic conditions or acute illnesses.
This delay lead to worsened health outcomes and increased risk of complications.

Whilst the entire nation is gradually progressing through the process of gradual ‘unlocking’,
along with the prevailing state of confinement side by side, there is a need of the hour to assess
the impact of COVID-19 on changes in lifestyle behavior among individuals. All these
prevailing restrictions might have had bearing on the eating or dietary habits, sleep pattern,
physical activity, and mental stress, culminating in worsening of both the physical and mental
health. It is important for them to find ways to stay active, maintain healthy eating habits, and
prioritize their mental health during these challenging times.

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LITERATURE REVIEW
Orlandi et al. (2021) conducted a cross sectional web based survey on total 2218 participants to
assess gender differences in the impact of lockdown on physical and lifestyle habits. Metabolic
equivalents-hour/week was used to evaluate physical activity. It was found that women
compared to men showed 1) a lower level of physical activity before the institution of lockdown,
2) a lower tendency to reduce physical activity levels during the lockdown, when gender
differences in compliance with guideline recommendations for physical activity disappeared, 3)
and a worsening of sleep and stool passage; men experienced an increase in alcohol
consumption. It was concluded that women who has previously lower level of physical activity
showed more resilience than men. However, it was also seen that sleep and bowel function
worsening, and trend to weight increase revealed signs of psychological suffering in women.

Ming et al. (2020) distributed electronic questionnaire to 376adults (where 90.2% were valid)
asking for demographic information, body weight, physical activity, and lifestyle before and
during quarantine. The study was divided in three parts. The first part included anthropometric
information, such as home domicile, gender, age, height, and weight changes. The second part
comprises information on participant lifestyle before the period of Coronavirus Disease and
lifestyle changes during period of lockdown. The third part was about attitude towards weight
control and diet control. It was seen both females and males with BMI < 24 gained weight, and
males with BMI ≥ 24 lost weight and females with BMI ≥ 24 gained weight which lead to
change in physical activity and lifestyle change during lockdown. Therefore it was concluded
that normal weight as well as overweight and obese people should be aware of the need for
weight control when physical activity is necessarily reduced by pandemic prevention and control
measures.

Singh et al. (2021) conducted a web survey study to assess the changes affecting daily habits and
lifestyle changes brought about because of Covid 19. 1,008 respondents participated in the study
aged between 18 to 80 years. A decrease in work-related stress was observed in 43% of the
population, sleep pattern improved in 36.7% people, and 27.1% of the inactive population
showed increased physical activity. A significant decrease in the proportion of people consuming

11
junk food (73.8%), alcohol (27.6%), and smoking (8.1%) and increase in screen usage was
observed. It was seen that participants felt positive about changes in their lifestyle and it was
concluded that positive lifestyle changes if sustained over a longer period of time it will decrease
the risk of developing chronic illness.

Agarwal et al. (2021) conducted a Global survey-based assessment of lifestyle changes during
the COVID-19 pandemic which included 2683 participants who were 18 years old or above. It
was seen that to cope up with stress and anxiety people were seen interacting with friends and
family members as well as exercising or pursuing individual hobbies. Social distancing was also
associated with fear, loneliness and anxiety. Mental health challenges was also faced by people
differently, some were moderately affected and some extremely. Different psychological and
behavioral reactions were analyzed, where females were found to be more affected than male
and large proportion considered these effects to be mood dependent. A correlation was also
observed that the individuals who pursued hobbies were also engaged in social interactions more
than others. Few people also used online therapies and religious practices. While being required
to isolate themselves at home and prohibit physical social gatherings, it was found that
individuals actively discovered alternate socializing ways through virtual interactions. For
instance, activities like practicing yoga and pursuing hobbies were more prevalent in the females
as compared to the male participants. In this study thus concluded that continuous surveillance of
the psychological consequences for outbreaks should become routine as part of preparedness
efforts worldwide.

Sarangi et al. (2020) conducted a study that investigates the changes in time allocations to
sedentary, physically active, and eat-sleep activities before and during the pandemic with a data
of 203 sample collected using an online survey. The findings from the study showed that
university students from low-income households and students who own a bicycle show a higher
tendency to spend time in physical activities during lockdown periods. Students accessing
college using active modes (before lockdown) allocate less time to sedentary and eat-sleep
activities than physical activities during the lockdown period. Students’ perception of Leisure
items among those who use active modes is significantly different from those of private and

12
public mode users. Thus it was concluded that such investigation would help implicitly
understand and publicize the health benefits of active modes and transit and encourage their use.
For instance, policymakers and transport planners can temporarily allocate less-used motorized
streets (due to the pandemic) to students who prefer walking and cycling.

Ammar et al. (2020) did an online survey on 1047 participants on mental health and
multidimensional lifestyle behaviors during home confinement. The study indicated that home
containment due to the Covid-19 pandemic curtailed all physical activity (PA) intensity levels
and increase in daily sitting time by more 28%. Additionally, an unhealthy pattern of food
consumption (the type of food, eating out of control, snacks between meals and number of main
meals) was exhibited. The negative changes in the majority of eating behaviour could be
attributed to eating out of anxiety or boredom, a dip in motivation to participate in PA or
maintain healthy eating or an increase in mood-driven eating. Only alcohol binge drinking
decreased significantly. While isolation is a necessary measure to protect public health, results
indicated that it altered physical activity and eating behaviour in a health compromising
direction. It was winded up by the fact that more detailed analysis of survey data will allow for a
segregation of the responses in different age groups, countries and other subgroups, which will
help develop interventions to mitigate the negative lifestyle behaviours that have manifested
during the COVID-19 confinement.

Faulkner et al. (2020) using an online survey (circulated in the four countries)on 8,425
participants focusing on adults those were affected by covid-19 that impacted the physical
activity, mental health and well-being of adults in the age bracket of 18–55 years. Participants
who reported a negative change in exercise behaviour between pre and during the early COVID-
19 restrictions demonstrated poorer mental health and well-being compared to those who had
either a positive change- or no change in their exercise behavior. The study noted that females
reported improvements in physical exercise levels, and younger adults (18–29 years) witnessed a
reduction in participation levels in physical exercises. Individuals who engaged in more physical
activity reported better mental health and well-being. It was seen that pandemic restrictions have
differentially impacted upon the physical activity habits of individuals based upon their age and

13
sex. Public health interventions that encourage physical activity should target specific groups
(e.g., men, young adults) who are most vulnerable to the negative effects of physical distancing
and/or self-isolation.

Bhutani and Cooper (2020) conducted an online survey among US adults. A chi-squared test was
used to check the changes in PA and SA levels since the Covid-19 outbreak. Statistical analysis
revealed that the differences were significant between genders, while Body Mass Index (BMI)
categories did not show distinct patterns. It was speculated that increase in stress, anxiety, and
boredom on a daily basis during the pandemic may be contributing to higher energy intake, sleep
disturbances, and less exercise. An upward trend in the use of television, internet-connected
devices, and applications/web on smartphones was also observed in adults and reflected
displacing of overall physical activity and possibly contributing to more energy intake. It was
noted that individuals who have continued to work outside of their homes and follow a more
“normal” routine may not be affected in the same way or to the same degree as those who have
been sheltering in place and working remotely.

Silva et al. (2020) studied to investigate the prevalence of physical inactivity and sedentary
behavior (SB) among adults with chronic diseases and their associations with socio-demographic
factors during the COVID-19 pandemic. This cross-sectional study included 249 participants
aged between 18–91 years. The interview was done in three stages where participants were asked
about their socio-demographic and lifestyle factors (age, sex, weight, height etc.), polypharmacy
and multimorbidity, and frequency and amount of time spent in moderate to vigorous physical
activity (MVPA). The prevalence data of physical inactivity and SB risk indicated that 71.5% of
adults with chronic diseases did not meet the minimum physical activity (PA) recommendations,
and 62.7% spent at least 4 h sitting per day. One notable fact was that one-third of the
participants did not perform any MVPA at all. A higher rate of physical inactivity among
smokers and women was also seen. Therefore, it was suggested that public health policies should
inform and encourage people with chronic diseases to maintain or increase their PA level safely
at home to mitigate adverse effects of physical inactivity, especially during the pandemic.

14
Besides, older people or those with multi-morbidities that may have physical limitations should
be encouraged to reduce sitting time.
Werneck et al. (2020) with a data from 39, 208 adults, aimed to analyze the association of
change patterns on TV viewing and computer/tablet use and incidence of elevated consumption
of ultra processed food consumption and lower consumption of fruits and vegetables during
covid-19. In the findings, it highlighted that people with high TV-viewing incidence were more
likely to present incidence of unhealthy diet behaviours. The difference between computer/tablet
use and TV-viewing can be in the co-occurrence of unhealthy foods (such as snacks while
watching TV), ultra-processed food which thus leads to lower consumption of fruits and
vegetables. It was concluded that with the incidence of sedentary behaviors, people got along
with unhealthy diet during quarantine.

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RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research problem
The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of technology on physical health and
sleeping pattern of adolescents before and after pandemic.

Objectives of the study

 To assess the physical activity level before and after the COVID-19 lockdown.
 To assess the stress and anxiety among participants before and after the COVID-19
lockdown.
 To assess the sleeping pattern among participants before and after the COVID-19
lockdown.
 To assess the dietary habits among participants before and after the COVID-19
lockdown.

Research Method
Cross-sectional study design was employed to carry out the present project work.

Population
The study was conducted in Delhi NCR. Random sampling method was used to select the sample
respondents, comprised of the adults, i.e. individuals in the age of 18 to 35 years. A total of 50
sample was collected (25 males and 25 females). A web based survey will be done to obtain data
from these adults having access to internet about eating habits and lifestyle during the COVID-
19 lockdown. The study was based on both primary data and secondary data. Primary data was
collected using a structured questionnaire method. Secondary data was collected from journals,
articles and websites. Informed written consent was obtained from each subject before the
beginning of the study. Each participant was informed about the details of the study.

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Statistical Analysis
The collected data was analyzed by simple percentage analysis was used to analyze the factors
like demographics such as age, gender and other details of the respondents. It is presented in pie
charts and bar graph

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The findings of this study will highlight the importance of engaging in regular physical activity
and maintaining proper nutrition for a healthy lifestyle.

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Results

The table given below displays the demographic variable of the respondents. It was found that
among the adult sample respondents, 46 percent belong to the age group between 18 to 25 years,
32 percent belong to age group between 26 to 30 years and 22 percent belong to age group
between 31 to 35 years. Both male and female respondents constitutes 50 percent respectively.
As far as the employment is concerned, 46 percent participants are students whereas rest 54
percent respondents are working. A simple percentage analysis has been done to achieve the
project aim, i.e., Effects on Lifestyle and Physical Activity Level of adults before and after
COVID-19 Pandemic.
Table 1 showing demographic variable of the respondents

S. Demographic Variable Category No. of Total no. of

participants respondents
No.
1. Age 18-25 years 23

26-30 years 16 50

31-35 years 11

2. Gender Male 25

Female 25 50

3. Current Employment Student 23

27 50
Working

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Physical Activities ( Light/ Before Pandemic After Pandemic
Moderate/ Vigorous)
No. of No. of Total No. of No. of Total
Males Females Males Females

Never 10 18 28 4 7 11

15 minutes 2 2 4 1 4 5

30 minutes 3 5 8 2 7 9

60 minutes or more 10 - 10 18 7 25

Table 2 showing physical activities of the respondents.

Activities to improve Before Pandemic After Pandemic

flexibility, such as Yoga
No. of No. of Total No. of No. of Total
Males Females Males Females

Yes 6 2 8 12 15 27

No 16 21 37 6 6 12

Sometimes 3 2 5 7 4 11

Table 3 showing activities done by the respondents to improve their flexibility.

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Use of internet, social media Before Pandemic After Pandemic
apps, smart watches/
phone, or fitness tracker for No. of No. of Total No. of No. of Total
physical activity Males Females Males Females

Yes 11 5 16 13 8 21

No 11 19 30 7 14 21

Sometimes 2 - 2 3 2 5

Often 1 1 2 2 1 3

Table 4 showing whether the respondents has used internet or social media for tracking their
physical activity.

Physical activity level among respondents

From the table 2, 3 & 4 it is noted that there is a drastic change in physical activities of the respondents
before and after pandemic. Earlier there were more people who did not used to do any physical activities
even for 15 minutes. But after pandemic the bar is raised for the people who are involved in physical
activities for 60 minutes or more. Before COVID it can be seen that only 12 percent (yes), 32 percent
(no) & 6 percent (sometimes) of men was involved in stretching or yoga, whereas in case of females it
was seen that 4 percent (yes), 42 percent (no), 4 percent (sometimes) were involved. But after COVID it
is noticed that the number increased up to 24 percent and 30 percent for both male and female
respectively who are indulged in activity to improve their flexibility. Before COVID people didn’t use
internet or tracker for physical activities but post pandemic 26 percent of male and 16 percent of female
can be seen using this technology.

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Do you get irritated easily? Before Pandemic After Pandemic

No. of No. of Total No. of No. of Total

Males Females Males Females

Always 2 1 3 8 11 19

Often 8 7 15 4 7 11

Rarely 6 13 19 8 7 15

Never 9 4 13 5 - 5

Table 5 showing how often the respondents get irritated.

Do you get anxious for no Before Pandemic After Pandemic

particular reason?
No. of No. of Total No. of No. of Total
Males Females Males Females

Always 0 0 0 0 5 5

Often 4 4 8 4 16 20

Rarely 7 13 20 11 4 15

Never 14 8 22 10 0 10

Table 6 showing whether the respondents get anxious for no reason.

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Do you feel too lazy and not Before Pandemic After Pandemic
interested in things you
used to like to do? No. of No. of Total No. of No. of Total
Males Females Males Females

Always 1 0 1 6 13 19

Often 2 4 6 8 9 17

Rarely 11 10 21 5 2 7

Never 11 11 22 6 1 7

Table 7 showing how lazy the respondents feel & not interested in things they like to do.

Do you feel mentally Before Pandemic After Pandemic

exhausted?
No. of No. of Total No. of No. of Total
Males Females Males Females

Always 0 1 1 5 12 17

Often 1 2 3 7 11 18

Rarely 13 12 25 4 2 6

Never 11 10 21 9 0 9

Table 8 showing how mentally exhausted respondents are.

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Do you feel like doing things Before Pandemic After Pandemic
because you have to, not
because you want to? No. of No. of Total No. of No. of Total
Males Females Males Females

Always 3 0 3 9 12 21

Often 2 2 4 6 10 16

Rarely 12 9 21 4 2 6

Never 8 14 22 6 1 7

Table 9 showing how the respondents feel like doing things because they have to, not because
they want to.

Fig. 1 showing how satisfied the respondents are with their life.

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Interpretation of stress and anxiety among participants
Table from 5 to 9 and figure 1 has results of respondents about their stress and anxiety. It can be seen
that there is an increase in the unprecedented stress, irritation, mental exhaustion etc. caused by the
social isolation resulting from the pandemic. From Table 5 it is noticed that before pandemic few people
get used to be irritated easily, e.g., 4 percent male and 2 percent female were seen. But after pandemic
this number changed to 16 and 22 percent for male and female respectively. Participants who often get
irritated were 16 percent and 14 percent male and female respectively. But the number dropped to 8
percent for male and remained same in case of females. 12 percent male and 26 percent females chose
rarely and 18 percent and 8 percent (male female respectively) were those adults who never felt irritation
before pandemic. After pandemic it was noticed that for rarely being irritated there was a 4 percent
increase in male population i.e. 16 percent, but it dropped to 14 percent for female. There is a drop in
male population to 10 percent for never being irritated after COVID.
From Table no 6 it can be interpreted that how many respondents used to feel anxious for no particular
reason. Only 1 percent of females always used to feel anxious after COVID only. 8 percent of both male
and female often used to feel the same before pandemic. And after pandemic it remained same for the
male but increased for females up to 32 percent. 14 and 26 percent male and female rarely felt anxious
before COVID, but after COVID it changed to 22 and 8 percent respectively. Respondents who never
felt this earlier pandemic were 28 percent and 16 percent for male and female and it changed to 20
percent for male after pandemic.
Table no 7 represented how respondents feel lazy and not interested in things they used to like to do. It
is seen that only 2 percent female always felt like this even before pandemic. But after pandemic the
number changed to 12 and 26 percent for male and female. 4 percent and 2 percent female and male
respectively often felt this way before COVID, but after it the percentage increased to 18 percent and 16
percent for female and male respectively. 26 percent male whereas 24 percent female rarely felt like this
before pandemic, but after pandemic a drop up to 10 percent and 4 percent is noticed in male and female
respectively. After COVID 12 percent males and 2 percent females never felt like this but before
pandemic 22 percent male and 2 percent female reported to felt like this.
Table no 8 shows how many adults were mentally exhausted. 2 percent female always felt this way even
before COVID, but after it changed to 24 percent and even 10 percent male felt the same. 2 percent and
4 percent among the male and female participants often felt this before COVID. After pandemic the

24
percent increased to 14 and 22 percent respectively. 26 percent & 24 percent rarely felt the mental
exhaustion before pandemic whereas 22 and 20 percent male and female never felt respectively. The
percentage of male and female after COVID who experienced this rarely are 8 and 4 percent
respectively.

Fig. 2 showing whether the respondents wake up well rested in morning.

Fig. 3 showing whether the respondents take nap during day or not

25
 Fig. 4 showing if the respondents have trouble getting off to sleep.

Fig. 5 showing the total no. of hours respondents sleep

Sleep pattern of the participants

There is a lot of changes in sleep pattern among people before and after COVID. These changes
can be seen from Fig. 2 to 5. From fig 2 we can clearly indicate that earlier 54 percent people
used to wake up well rested in the mornings. But after COVID only 24 percent wake up well
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rested. Before pandemic 34 percent and after pandemic 28 percent often woke up well rested.
Whereas 10 percent people never used to get up well rested in the morning before COVID, but
after pandemic it increased to 14 percent.

Fig 3 shows if the participants take nap during the day or not. It can be seen that 14 percent said
yes before COVID and after COVID 20 percent agreed to that. 66 percent did not take nap
earlier but after pandemic 38 percent didn’t. Sometimes 20 percent people took nap before
pandemic but afterwards the number increased to 42 percent.

Fig 4 shows whether the adults faces trouble getting off to sleep or not. 2 percent faced the
trouble before COVID and it increased to 8 percent after COVID. Before pandemic 20 percent
adults often faces trouble getting sleep but after pandemic it increased to 22 percent. Now only
22 percent adults never gets trouble in going to sleep after pandemic unlike before where it was
44 percent.

Fig 5 tells us about the total hours of sleep taken by the adults. Here more the number of hours of
sleep results in less the percent of adults after pandemic. Earlier 26 percent adults used to take
more than 7 hours of sleep but now only 22 percent. Same reduction can be seen for 6-7 hours,
before pandemic it was 34 percent and afterwards it is 30 percent. Now 14 percent used to take
only 4-5 hours of sleep in a day after COVID when there were only 4 percent before.

Fig. 6 showing total no. of meals taken by respondents

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Fig. 7 showing total amount of water consumed by the respondents

Fig. 8 showing how often the respondents have street/ restaurants food.

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Fig. 9 showing if the participants like to have snack between meals or at night.

Fig. 10 showing the no. of respondents engaged in drinking alcohol.

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Fig. 11 showing the total no. of respondents who smokes.

Fig. 12 showing weight change of the respondents

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Dietary habits Interpretation
There are a lot of changes in dietary habits among people before and after pandemic. After
pandemic it can be seen that more no. of adults rarely eat street foods or at restaurants, but the
downside is that more people are involved in drinking and smoking after pandemic. From fig 6 it
is interpreted that earlier only 26 percent of the respondents eat 3-4 meals a day but after
pandemic it increased to 34 percent. More people were avoiding the street and outdoor foods.
Earlier 20 percent people always used to eat outdoors but after pandemic it reduced to 8 percent
only. Frequently 48 percent go out to eat before COVID but after pandemic only 34 percent
preferred. But after pandemic 50 percent people rarely eats out.
It can be noticed that the alcohol consumption has increased after pandemic. Earlier 76 percent
people never used to drink but after COVID it got reduced to 48 percent. Now after pandemic 14
percent people oftenly drink and the occasional drinkers got increased from 18 to 36 percent in
before and after pandemic respectively. It can also be seen that only 8 percent people used to
smoke sometimes before pandemic but after it has now increased to 20 percent. Now the
percentage of non-smokers has also been reduced to 78 percent from 88 percent.
COVID has also affected the weight change in people. 44 percent of the people have gained
weight during/after pandemic. Only 24 percent lost their weight, whereas 32 percent have
noticed no change in their weight.

31
DISCUSSION
The purpose of this study is to study the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on lifestyle and observe
the physical activity level among today’s youth. The gathered data was analyzed using simple
percentage analysis. There is a drastic change in physical activities of the youth before and after
covid. Earlier people were not involved that much in physical activities, but post pandemic it
changed. People were more involved in taking care of their health by doing physical activities. In
fact it can be seen that earlier 36 percent women were not involved in any physical activities, but
after pandemic it reduced to 14 percent. From zero females to 14 percent females doing physical
activities post pandemic shows the cocern regarding their health after pandemic. Even in males
also 12 percent used to do yoga for flexibility but after COVID it changed to 24 percent. From 4
percent to 30 percent, females were seen more involved in yoga. A noticeable change was also
seen in both the genders who also tracked their physical activity using social media, fitness
tracker or smart watches.
With regard to the other impacts of covid-19 pandemic, the impact on stress and anxiety can be
clearly seen among the youth. Staying at home and physical inactivity during pandemic lead to
unhealthy behavior changes. In our sample people can get easily irritated post pandemic
especially the females. These youth also now get anxious for no particular reason. In females it
was seen a lot, whereas in males a bit change was noticed. Due to living in home, people felt too
lazy and not interested in doing things they used to like to do earlier. 12 and 26 percent males
and females respectively reported this change. They also reported how mentally exhausted they
feel. Here also females were mostly affected i.e., 24 percent whereas males were only 10 percent.
It was also noticed that they were satisfied with their life but after pandemic the satisfaction was
gone and it became neutral feeling among the respondents. The feeling of dissatisfaction though
increased among them.

Staying at home affected the youth’s sleep and dietary habits. People who used to wake up well
rested before pandemic were now seen to report how rare they felt the same. The total no. of
hours of sleep was also a bit reduced among adults post COVID. People reported to be more
health conscious after pandemic. It is noted that before COVID, adults to eat frequently the
outside food. But after COVID, they rarely ate street food or at restaurants. The water
consumption per day was also seen to be improved after pandemic. But the results also shows
32
that adults were involved in drinking alcohol after pandemic. Earlier it was noticed 44 and 32
percent female and males never drank alcohol but after pandemic it changed to 26 and 22 percent
females and males respectively. 20 percent females reported to drink ocassionally after
pandemic. There was also a bit increase in no. of males (from 8 to19 percent) who reported to
smoke post pandemic. Due to certain changes, weight change was also reported by respondents.
44 percent people gained their weight where 24 percent are males and rest females. Total 32
percent reported no change in their weight

Limitations of the Study

 This research was limited to Delhi NCR region, and this isn’t a total voice of the youth. It may
vary if the study has been conducted in the every part of the country.
 The sample size of 50 participants may not be sufficient to demonstrate the overall youth
behavior and aspects regarding the change.
 The respondents may not have reported the correct details and they may have provided biased
information due to the efforts of appearing rational.
 The number of questions should’ve been more and apt, so as to get more clear facts regarding
the research.

33
CONCLUSION
The present study was conducted to understand the effects of pandemic on lifestyle and physical activity
level among today’s youth. The COVID-19 pandemic had a positive impact on nutritional behavior
among adults. Some little bit increased snacking, more alcohol consumption and weight gain might risk
their health. Furthermore, an incline in physical activity and exercise due to COVID-19 pandemic was
reported by almost 50% of adults, with women whose physical activities before the pandemic was very
less. But the pandemic also have negatively affected their mental health. Rest there might be possibility
for adults who had been in quarantine were more likely to report a negative impact on nutrition and
physical activity behaviors compared to those not in quarantine. These results show that the COVID-19
pandemic may have induced healthy, self-perceived nutrition and physical activity behavior changes in
many adults, but have also negatively impacted the stress and anxiety among adults which might have
lead to drinking alcohol and smoking in adults.

34
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Annexure
QUESTIONNAIRE
1. Name
2. Age
3. Sex
4. Current employment (Student/ working)

Physical activity level

BEFORE COVID AFTER COVID

5. Do you do any physical activities (light/ moderate/ vigorous).

 Never
 15 minutes
 30 minutes
 60 minutes or more
6. I do activities to improve flexibility, such as stretching or yoga.
 Yes
 No
 Sometimes

7. Do you use internet, social media apps, smart watches/phone, or fitness tracker for
physical activity purpose?

 Yes
 No
 Sometimes

Stress and anxiety

BEFORE COVID AFTER COVID

38
8. Do you get irritated easily?
 Always
 Often
 Rarely
 Never

9. Do you get anxious for no particular reason?

 Always
 Often
 Rarely
 Never

10. Do you feel too lazy and not interested in things you used to like to do?
 Always
 Often
 Rarely
 Never

11. Do you feel mentally exhausted?

 Always
 Often
 Rarely
 Never

12. Do you feel like doing things because you have to, not because you want to?
 Always
 Often
 Rarely
 Never

39
 13. How satisfied are you with your life?
 Very dissatisfied
 Dissatisfied
 Neutral
 Satisfied
 Very satisfied

Changes in sleep pattern

BEFORE COVID AFTER COVID

14. Your screen time usage in total (TV, smartphone, game console etc.)?

 2-3 hours

 3-4 hours

 4-5 hours

 more than 5 hours

15. Do you have trouble getting off to sleep?

 Always
 Often
 Rarely
 Never

16. Do you wake up in the morning well rested?

 Yes
 Often
 Rarely
 Never
40
 17. Do you take naps during the day?

 Yes

 No

 Sometimes

18. How many hours of sleep do you get in a day? (approx.)

 Less than 4 hours

 4-5 hours

 5-6 hours

 6-7 hours

 more than 7 hours

Dietary habits

BEFORE COVID AFTER COVID

19. No of meals per day

 1-2 meals
 2-3 meals
 3-4 meals
 More than 4 meals

20. Amount of water consumed per day?

 1-4 cups
 6-7 cups
 more than 8 cups

41
 21. How often do you eat out street food or at restaurants/cafes etc.?
 Always
 Frequently
 Rarely
 Never
22. Do you like to have a snack between meals or late night snack?
 Yes
 No
 Sometimes

23. Are you engaged in drinking?

 Always
 Never
 Often
 Occasionally
24. Do you smoke?
 Frequently
 Sometimes
 Never

25. Any weight changes during/after COVID-19 ?

 Gained
 Loss
 No change

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