Running Performance during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic saw government-imposed health mandates that contributed to profound work, exercise, and lifestyle changes. There was an observed increase in weight gain and sedentary behavior during the pandemic in United States, as well as increased outdoor exercise and running in the United States. While road race times have consistently slowed over the last few decades, it is unknown how running performance changed during the pandemic. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of finishers of the world’s largest 10 km road race in 2019 (pre-pandemic) and 2021 (pandemic). Times were