DCU All-Island International Study looking at Impact on Physical Activity and Wellbeing during COVID-19 Restrictions underway

A new all-island survey from Dublin City University’s Institute of Education will measure how the COVID-19 restrictions have impacted upon physical activity and wellbeing. 

Researchers in the Institute’s School of Arts Education and Movement are conducting the survey, which is part of an international study taking place in the UK and New Zealand.

A call-out for participants was issued today. Researchers involved in the study say they are looking for people over 18 and from all walks of life. 

The purpose of the study is to understand the effect of COVID-19 restrictions imposed on the population since the closure of schools and universities on March 12th, followed by more stringent measures implemented on March 20th.

It seeks to take a close look at how people’s physical activity and wellbeing have been impacted at different stages of the government’s restrictions to counteract the global health pandemic. It is hoped that any information received by the study will help authorities be better prepared to support people in achieving and maintaining optimal health and wellbeing if such events were to occur again. 

The study - entitled ‘Effect of Coronavirus Restrictions on Physical Activity and Wellbeing’ - is headed up by Dr Bronagh McGrane, of the DCU School of Arts Education and Movement, Dr Maura Coulter, Associate Dean for Research and a lecturer in the school, and PhD candidate John Murphy. 

“We know that it is a difficult time for many at the moment given the restrictions. People’s day to day routines have been greatly affected,” said Dr McGrane

“It is important that we can see the exact effects this is having on people's wellbeing, physical activity and sleep whether that is those in their 20s or 80s. 

“This survey is giving people a chance to say how it is impacting them personally and this information can then be used to better inform future restrictions should they occur.”

The study is also being conducted by researchers at the University of Winchester in the UK, and Massey University in Auckland, New Zealand. 

If you’re interested in taking part, please click here: https://dcuconnected.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cuK3OtNDPBSI7Od