Children Are More Physically Active in Greener Areas

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Article Summary

Children Are More Physically Active in Greener Areas

March 2012
Author:
Estela Almanza
Topic:
Parks & Recreation, Parks, Playgrounds, Trails and Greenways, Communities, Zoning and Mixed Land Use
Population Served:
School-age Youth (K-12)
Location by State:
National
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Summary:

The Challenge: The prevalence and amount of physical activity among adults and children in the United States and Europe is disturbingly low compared to levels recommended for maintaining good health. Underlying causes for the lack of physical activity may include changes in urban structure and the built environment that reduce opportunities for physical activity.

Make an Impact: Physical activity promotes health and reduces obesity risk, and evidence suggests that high levels of “greenness” (defined by the amount of nearby vegetation), may promote physical activity.  In residential neighborhoods, greenness levels are generally higher for tree-lined walkways and parks than for sparsely-landscaped streets. 

What the findings are about: This study examined relationships between greenness and children’s physical activity using portable global positioning system (GPS) units, accelerometers (activity monitors), and satellite imagery data.

Key Findings and Recommendations:
  • Children were more active when they were in greener areas of their neighborhoods, especially children living in a smart-growth community (characterized by more walkable streets with housing closer to shops, commercial services, parks and recreation areas).
  • The amount of time spent being physically active was nearly five times higher among children who spent more than 20 minutes per day in greener areas than children who spent fewer than 90 seconds per day in such areas.
  • Shade and aesthetics provided by tree-lined sidewalks may encourage walking and other outdoor activities.
  • Integrating green elements into community design is a way to promote physical activity.
  • Smart-growth communities encourage greater use of green spaces for physical activity

 

Read the full article: A Study of Community Design, Greenness, and Physical Activity in hildren Using Satellite, GPS and Accelerometer Data

Suggested Citations:
Almanza, E., Jerrett, M., Dunton, G., Seto, E., Pentz, M.A. (2012). A Study of Community Design, Greenness, and Physical Activity in Children Using Satellite, GPS and Accelerometer Data. Health & Place, 18(1), 46-54.
 

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