Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Lockdown on AnthropometricParameters in Children 11/12 Years Old

Abstract

Background: During the great lockdown in Spain due to SARS-CoV-2, in between themonths of March and June 2020, dietary and physical activity habits were modified in children. Theaim of the study was to determine the impact of the lockdown on anthropometric parameters inchildren aged 11/12 years. Methods: Fifty Spanish children aged 11/12 years (M = 11.40;SD = 0.50)participated: 33 (66%) boys and 17 (34%) girls. For data collection, we used an anthropometrykit; the Alpha-Fitness Battery, a validated instrument to assess dietary intake, habits and practices;and an ad hoc survey to collect sociodemographic and other data under investigation. Results: There were significant differences in the anthropometric parameters measured and in the resultsobtained for Body Mass Index (BMI) and body fat percentage pre- and post-lockdown in both boysand girls (p< 0.05). No significant differences were found in waist-circumference measurements(p> 0.05). Conclusions: There is evidence of a significant impact of the SARS-CoV-2 lockdown onanthropometric parameters in boys and girls aged 11/12 years.