Evaluation of Physical Activity Levels, Sleep Quality and Nutritional Habits of Paraathletes during the Pandemic Process

Abstract

Background: Cancellation or postponement of sports organizations due to the Covid 19 pandemic has caused great stress for athletes. There are limited studies on how physical activity levels, nutritional habits and sleep quality are affected, especially in physically disabled athletes(paraathletes) during the pandemic process. 
 Purpose: the aim of the research is to examine the physical activity, nutritional habits and sleep quality levels of paraathletes during the pandemic process.
 
 Method: Eighty- seven male paraathletes were included in the study. The personal data form required to determine the characteristics within the study subject International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ Short Form), the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index Questionnaire were used in a way consistent with the study. In addition to these sections, changes in participants' nutritional habits were questioned. 
 
 Results: Total MET values of paraathletes were determined as 3233 ± 1421. The sleep quality index total score averages of the participants were 5.83 ± 0.80 points, indicating the level of 'poor sleep quality'. Food consumption of the participants It was found that 56% of them increased their food consumption, 28% did not change, and 18% decreased.
 
 
 Conclusion: The results of the study showed that physical activity, nutrition and sleep processes, which have an important place in the life cycle of paraathletes, were adversely affected during the pandemic process.