Longitudinal Analysis of Variations in Daily Step Counts and Long-Term Implications of COVID-19 Waves and Restriction Phases in Qatar’s Step Into Health Program: Mixed Methods Study

The largest drops in daily step count coincided with increased case severity and Ramadan. Integration of quantitative and qualitative findings showed that declines in activity were shaped not only by restrictions but also by fear, motivation, and contextual factors. These results underscore the importance of designing interventions that encourage outdoor activity and provide reliable social media-based guidance during public health crises.