Due to the restrictions implemented to reduce COVID-19 transmission, the daily routine and activities of the majority of the population have changed, including the athletes. This study investigated the changes in physical activity, diet and lifestyle of runners and bikers in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay. It utilized a triangulation method to compare quantitative and qualitative data of 78 identified respondents. Google forms were utilized to collect the quantitative data and phone call or zoom meeting to collect the qualitative data. Out of the 78 participants 42 participants perceived their diet to have improved. There is a significant change in main meals, snacks, liters of water consumed by the participants before and during the ECQ lockdown (P value < 0.05). Also, results in food group patterns before and during the pandemic showed significant differences in frequency of consumption. Moderate activities showed statistically significant increase during the lockdown. Vigorous and walking activities also increased. Finally, lifestyle of the majority of the participants during ECQ lockdown stayed the same and improved. There is a decrease in smokers smoking more than 5 sticks per day. Sleeping hours of the participants slightly increased with a P value of 0.10 which showed no significance. Concerned institutions can utilize the data presented in the study to create programs that will help the athletes to improve their lifestyle activities in the time of a pandemic.

Keyword: Changes in diet, physical activity, and lifestyle among runners and bikers Before and during COVID-19 pandemic