Determining Cardiovascular Endurance in Post-COVID Individuals and Its Association With Physical Activity

Abstract

Background: Post-COVID individuals may experience persistent fatigue, dyspnea, reduced exercise tolerance, physical inactivity, and impaired cardiovascular endurance, which can affect functional recovery and long-term health. Objective: This study aimed to determine the association of physical activity level and body mass index category with cardiovascular endurance among post-COVID individuals. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 179 post-COVID individuals aged 18–40 years from January to June 2024 in Lahore. Participants were selected using convenience sampling. Physical activity level was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, while cardiovascular endurance was assessed using the Harvard Step Test. BMI was calculated and categorized using standard BMI groups. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 23. Descriptive statistics were reported as mean ± standard deviation and frequency with percentage. Associations between categorical variables were assessed using chi-square tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of participants was 24.95 ± 4.55 years, and mean BMI was 23.39 ± 3.41 kg/m². Among participants, 34 (19.0%) were inactive, 91 (50.8%) were minimally active, and 54 (30.2%) were fully active. Physical activity level was significantly associated with cardiovascular endurance, χ²(8) = 113.43, p < 0.001, Cramer’s V = 0.563. BMI category was also significantly associated with cardiovascular endurance, χ²(12) = 40.19, p < 0.001, Cramer’s V = 0.274. Conclusion: Lower physical activity and higher BMI burden were associated with poorer cardiovascular endurance among post-COVID individuals. Simple screening of physical activity, BMI, and endurance may help guide post-COVID rehabilitation and lifestyle counseling.