Behavior–biological mismatch in metabolic health: Evidence from South Korean adults before, during, and after COVID-19 (KNHANES 2019–2022)

The persistence and rise of PA-NH after the pandemic show an association suggesting that adherence to PA guidelines alone is insufficient for cardiometabolic protection. Post-pandemic public health strategies should integrate aerobic and resistance exercise with dietary modification, stress management, and routine screening, prioritizing older adults and other high-risk groups.