HOW TO RETURN TO SPORTS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES DURINGTHE COVID-19 PANDEMIC?

Abstract

The novel Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to affect every point of life since its first days, 31 December 2019. The outbreak, which influenced the world, changed our approach not only to our health, but also to our social life, economy, eating and drinking habits, and events such as cinema, sports, theater and concerts. It has changed the daily routines and life styles by mainly forcing people to self-isolate themselves in their houses. Coronavirus (SARS-COV2 virus) can spread out by drops of respiratory secretion through coughs, sneezes, laughs of the people who have been infected. Close contacts, in particular less than 1.5 meters, and contaminated objects are the main transmission ways. The fact that the virus can remain inactive for a significant period of time on many surfaces, not only with human-human contact, also requires diversification of protection measures. At the beginning of the outbreak many countries applied lockdown measurements and mandating the use of face mask in order to prevent the spread of the disease. Currently, as part of new normalization process under COVID-19 conditions gradually re-opening strategies are discussing by authorities for all sectors (transportation, restaurants/coffee shops, hotels, schools, indoor sports facilities/sports organizations and more). Particularly, this study aims to analyze the possible measurements and preventions for indoor sports activities. What should be done for cleaning the facilities? What should employees do to protect themselves and customers? Is there any difference related with the type of sports? How should the facilities organize group activities under the pandemic?