The impact of the covid-19 pandemic on physical activity and health of children and adolescents in Europe

Abstract

In what ways and to what extent has the Covid-19 pandemic affected the lives of children and young people in Europe by limiting their access to physical education and other types of physical activity, including sport? A review of the available, reported, evidence-based knowledge is provided with regards to physical activity and motor behaviour; psycho-social well-being; as well as effects on mental well-being. From a literature review, the main insights are extracted and placed in a wider policy context, including as regards EU-wide priorities regarding sports policy, health-enhancing physical activity (HEPA) as well as public funding, including from the EU budget.