Training Opportunities for Estonian Elite Athletes in the COVID-19 situation

COVID-19 pandemic influences different aspects of society, especially sports. The aim of research was to assess the changes in training conditions and aspects of training of Estonian elite athletes in the COVID-19 situation and get feedback of athletes` assessment about pandemic impact of the on Estonian sports. 102 Estonian athletes (♀ = 58; 24.68 ±8.55y) filled in the electronic self-rate questionnaire. The training of Estonian elite athletes in the COVID-19 situation continued but changed. Athletes were mostly disturbed by the cancellation of competitions (70.6%) and change in training conditions (62.1%). Instead of usual training places, forests, gardens, city streets, homes, as well as public bathing places (rivers, lakes) were used. The strongest negative impact of the pandemic according to athletes’ opinions was on their economic situation. The majority of respondents (90.8%) ware positive and thought that (1) the pandemic has little effect or (2) who were able to adapt to a new situation and stay motivated still come out of the situation even stronger. Governments and sport organizations should consider financial support for affected athletes in current situation, and also initiate prevention strategies for the future.