University of Minnesota researchers have selected 36 square half-mile areas in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area in which to follow groups of residents to determine how the form of the neighborhood affects their levels of physical activity. The 720 study participants are filling out surveys and travel diaries, and will wear accelerometers to measure their physical movement. Neighborhoods are being selected to represent a wide range of forms, including very dense areas with a diverse mix of uses to uniform, low-density areas. The researchers are trying to find out if people who live in more compact areas get more physical activity than those who live in sprawling neighborhoods. Also, the researchers are attempting to discover if participants’ perceptions of the level of walkability influence how much physical activity they get. The researchers will assess how much of a difference the environment and perceptions make in determining levels of physical activity. A statewide coalition for physical activity advocacy is planning to use the study’s results to guide their work. For more information visit www.beactiveminnesota.org.
