The COVID-19 pandemic affected all aspects of our lives and is the subject of numerous scientific studies around the world. Among other things, scientists are dealing with the impact that the virus leaves on sportsmen's bodies.

In collaboration with the Institute of Public Health of the Split-Dalmatia County, Faculty of Kinesiology in Split and HNK Hajduk, a scientific paper was recently published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, on the performance of professional soccer players after they have been infected with COVID-19.

This study aimed to estimate the period required to return to full competitive rhythm after infection and changes in racing performance the infection causes in professional soccer players. For this purpose, performances of players who had COVID-19, before and after the infection, were compared to those of their teammates who did not have it. The results showed that in asymptomatic cases, it took approximately 3 weeks to return to full training, and between 4 and 6 weeks for players who exhibited symptoms.

These findings will help medical and sports staff in situations where athletes return to full training capacity after a COVID-19 infection.

More at: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/21/11688