Development of physical motor performance in university students through distance Physical Education in the context of COVID-19

Objective: to evaluate the effects of distance physical education on the motor performance of university students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: study quantitative, correlational and longitudinal design. A total of 103 university students were examined, following a 12-week program divided into three stages, using online distance education. Measurements included abdominal endurance strength, upper waist quick strength, lower extremity explosive strength, and recovery from physical stimulus. Data from weeks 2 (diagnostic), 8 (partial assessment) and 13 (final assessment) were compared. Non-parametric and descriptive statistics were used for the analysis. Results: significant changes were observed in body weight, unobstructed long jump distance and pulse rate before and after the session. Conclusions: distance physical education had positive effects on body weight reduction, development of explosive strength in the lower extremities and improvement of recovery capacity in university students.