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Wang X, Wu C. An Observational Study of Park Attributes and Physical Activity in Neighborhood Parks of Shanghai, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17062080. [PMID: 32245096 PMCID: PMC7143081 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17062080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Evidence shows that neighborhood parks provide opportunities for urban residents to participate in physical activity, but little is known about the space–behavior relationship of physical settings. This study explored the patterns of use in neighborhood parks, and focused particularly on visitors’ levels of activity supported by the specific landscape features and attributes. Behavior mapping data, including the users’ characteristics, their behaviors and activity levels, and the landscape characteristics, were obtained in three neighborhood parks of Shanghai, China. A total of 6126 park users were documented during the observations, and most of them were involved in sedentary activity. This study found that different environmental settings such as water, plaza, lawn, and architecture supported different types and levels of activity. Although more men than women visited the neighborhood parks, women were more active than men in park-based physical activity. In this Chinese sample, the findings demonstrate behavior mapping is a promising tool to measure park-based physical activity. As this study associated the levels of use with the landscape features, the results are expected to be useful in design practice for promoting regular physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Wang
- Department of Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture, Post-doctoral Research Station in Public Administration, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-25-8439-5262
| | - Chengzhao Wu
- Department of Landscape Studies, Key Lab of Ecology and Energy Saving in High-density Human Settlements, College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China;
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Hooper P, Foster S, Edwards N, Turrell G, Burton N, Giles-Corti B, Brown WJ. Positive HABITATS for physical activity: Examining use of parks and its contribution to physical activity levels in mid-to older-aged adults. Health Place 2020; 63:102308. [PMID: 32217278 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2020.102308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Studies of parks and physical activity rarely identify the actual spaces participants use. Using data from the HABITAT project, a longitudinal cohort of mid-to older-aged (40-70 years) respondents (n = 11,036) living in Brisbane Australia, this study examined (1) the demographic characteristics of users and non-users of parks; (2) the park used and the characteristics and features of the most popular reported spaces; and (3) the level of physical activity undertaken in the reported parks and whether users had higher total physical activity levels than non-users. Park use was significantly higher (p < 0.01) among dog walkers, couples (over 40) living with children, and those living in least disadvantaged areas. Regular park use was significantly higher among users of larger-sized neighbourhood and district-catchment parks. Park users were 35% more likely to meet the physical activity guidelines (OR = 1.35, 95%CI 1.21-1.50, p < 0.001) compared with those who indicated they did nto regularly use a park. The size of the park used was positively associated with participation in physical activity. Users of larger-sized parks spent more time doing vigorous activity and engaged in more activity sessions than non-users. Future data obtained from large populations, including spatial examination of the actual parks used and their characteristics, are essential to facilitate planning for park provision, optimising the use of these spaces for recreation and physical activity by mid-to older-aged adults, and creating healthy communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Hooper
- Australian Urban Design Research Centre, School of Design, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
| | - Sarah Foster
- Centre for Urban Research, Royal Melbourne Institute for Technology University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Nicole Edwards
- Australian Urban Design Research Centre, School of Design, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Gavin Turrell
- Centre for Urban Research, Royal Melbourne Institute for Technology University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia; Centre for Research and Action in Public Health, Health Research Institute, University of Canberra, Australia
| | - Nicola Burton
- School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Billie Giles-Corti
- Centre for Urban Research, Royal Melbourne Institute for Technology University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
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Cohen DA, Han B, Williamson S, Nagel C, McKenzie TL, Evenson KR, Harnik P. Playground features and physical activity in U.S. neighborhood parks. Prev Med 2020; 131:105945. [PMID: 31805315 PMCID: PMC7405885 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2019.105945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
All people need to engage in routine physical activity and children require it daily. Playgrounds are settings designed for children to be physically active, yet there has been little research assessing which play elements and structures are associated with more moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among both youth and adults. We conducted a national study of neighborhood parks with the goal of identifying factors that promote more MVPA. We selected a nationally representative sample of 162 parks between 3 and 22 acres in 25 U.S. cities with a population >100,000. We used direct observation to measure MVPA in 147 playgrounds during spring and summer of 2016, documented playground characteristics and assessed hours of use and MVPA by age group and gender. We analyzed data using descriptive statistics and generalized linear models. The most common play elements and structures were slides and ladders (92% of parks) and swings (81%); elements supporting balancing, crawling, spinning, sand and water play were in <30% of playgrounds. Each additional play element was associated with about 50% more users and 50% more MVPA. Spinning structures and splash pads were associated with more playground use and more MVPA. Playgrounds with signage advertising park programs and on-site restrooms had more person-hours of use, but only half the parks had restrooms and <30% had signage. To address insufficient physical activity, upgrades to playgrounds should include restrooms, structures that support a wide variety of movements, and elements that also encourage adults to be active.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bing Han
- RAND Corporation, United States of America
| | | | | | | | - Kelly R Evenson
- University North Carolina - Chapel Hill, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, United States of America
| | - Peter Harnik
- Trust for Public Land (previous affiliation), United States of America
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Huang JH, Hipp JA, Marquet O, Alberico C, Fry D, Mazak E, Lovasi GS, Robinson WR, Floyd MF. Neighborhood characteristics associated with park use and park-based physical activity among children in low-income diverse neighborhoods in New York City. Prev Med 2020; 131:105948. [PMID: 31836479 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2019.105948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Urban parks provide spaces and facilities for children's physical activity (PA) and can be a free resource in low-income communities. This study examined whether neighborhood characteristics were associated with children's park use and park-based moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) in low-income diverse communities and how associations differed between ethnic groups. Data on park visits and MVPA came from 16,402 children 5-10-years old directly observed using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities in 20 parks in low-income neighborhoods with majority Latino or Asian populations in New York City. Neighborhood characteristics included land use mix (LUM), street audits, crime rates, and an area deprivation index. We employed Poisson and negative binomial models to estimate effects of neighborhood-level variables on the number of children observed in parks and engaging in MVPA, overall and by ethnicity. Results for Asian, Latino, and African American children indicated that higher levels of LUM and pedestrian-friendly streets were associated with greater numbers of children in parks and higher MVPA across all three groups. For Asian and Latino children only, quality of environment was positively associated with MVPA, whereas level of deprivation and crime rates in the surrounding neighborhood were negatively associated with children's park-based MVPA. In contrast, a park's access to public transportation was negatively associated with number of all children observed and engaging in MVPA. Study findings suggest that park-based MVPA interventions can be informed by understanding how neighborhood characteristics facilitate and constrain park use and park-based MVPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Huei Huang
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA; Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - J Aaron Hipp
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA; Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Oriol Marquet
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA; Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA; Department of Geography, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Claudia Alberico
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA; Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Dustin Fry
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Mazak
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA; Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Gina S Lovasi
- Urban Health Collaborative, Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Whitney R Robinson
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Myron F Floyd
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA
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Botchwey N, Conway TL, Floyd M, Hipp A, Kim A, Pollack Porter KM, Umstattd Meyer MR, Burnett J, Sallis JF. Challenges recruiting diverse youth for physical activity research. Prev Med 2020; 131:105888. [PMID: 31770541 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2019.105888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Botchwey
- School of City and Regional Planning, Georgia Institute of Technology, 245 4th Street NW, Suite 204, Atlanta, GA 30332-0155, United States of America.
| | - Terry L Conway
- Department of Health Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive #0631, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America.
| | - Myron Floyd
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, College of Natural Resources, 2820 Faucette Dr., Campus Box 8001, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States of America
| | - Aaron Hipp
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, College of Natural Resources, 2820 Faucette Dr., Campus Box 8001, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States of America.
| | - Anna Kim
- School of Public Affairs, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92182-4505, United States of America.
| | - Keshia M Pollack Porter
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 624 N. Broadway, Hampton House 380A, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States of America.
| | - M Renée Umstattd Meyer
- Department of Public Health, Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Baylor University, One Bear Place #97343, Waco, TX 76798-7343, United States of America.
| | - Jasmine Burnett
- School of City and Regional Planning, Georgia Institute of Technology, 245 4th Street NW, Suite 204, Atlanta, GA 30332-0155, United States of America.
| | - James F Sallis
- Department of Health Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive #0631, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States of America.
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Wagner P, Duan YP, Zhang R, Wulff H, Brehm W. Association of psychosocial and perceived environmental factors with park-based physical activity among elderly in two cities in China and Germany. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:55. [PMID: 31937268 PMCID: PMC6961356 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-8140-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Urban parks play an important role in promoting physical activity (PA) among adults and especially among older city residents. According to the socioecological approach the association of physical environments and psychosocial factors in the context of park-based PA of elderly have not been systematically examined until now, let alone the relevance of the city (urban area) on a cross-cultural level. This study investigated selected aspects of (1) the association of psychosocial and park environmental factors with park-based physical activity (PBPA) of older people; and (2) the moderating effect of city on the association of these factors with PBPA. Methods A face-to-face survey was conducted of a mixed-culture sample from different urban surroundings in Hong Kong (HK) and Leipzig (L). In six parks of each city physically active elderly (> = 60 years; HK: n = 306; L: n = 311) were recruited. Multiple linear regressions were used to analyse the association between psychosocial factors and perceived environmental factors with PBPA and the moderating effect of city. Results Controlled for demographic variables, all other psychosocial factors were significantly related to PBPA, except social support. In terms of environmental factors, PBPA was positively associated with safety, attractiveness, features and negatively associated with park time distance. Controlled for demographic variables, psychosocial and environmental factors, the moderating effect of city on the associations of park features and park time distance with PBPA was not significant in HK. In contrast, there was a significant positive relationship for park features and a negative relationship for park time distance with PBPA in L. Conclusions Psychosocial and perceived environmental factors significantly influence PBPA of older people. City moderates the associations of these factors and independently contributes to park-based PA of the elderly. The different interactions of environmental factors and urban area for PBPA of elderly can support policy makers on the municipal level in choosing adequate strategies for promoting PA of older people in parks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Wagner
- Institute for Execise and Public Health, Leipzig University, Jahnallee 59, 04155, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Yan Ping Duan
- Department of Sport and Physical Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, 8 On Muk Street, Shek Mun, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ru Zhang
- Department of Sports Science & Physical Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, G/F, Kwok Sports Building, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hagen Wulff
- Institute for Execise and Public Health, Leipzig University, Jahnallee 59, 04155, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Walter Brehm
- Institute of Sport Science, University of Bayreuth, 95447, Bayreuth, Germany
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Camplain R, Pinn TA, Williamson HJ, Pro G, Becenti L, Bret J, Luna C, Baldwin JA. Adaptation of the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) for the Measurement of Physical Activity in Jail Settings. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17010349. [PMID: 31947914 PMCID: PMC6981919 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17010349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Over 9 million people are incarcerated in jail each year, but physical activity has not been assessed among incarcerated populations. Measuring physical activity in the jail setting is complicated as current physical activity measurement tools are not designed for use inside jail facilities. Therefore, we adapted an evidence-based physical activity measurement tool, the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC), to assess physical activity within a jail facility. SOPARC was designed to obtain observational information on physical activity of individuals. The study team created a protocol for SOPARC for use in jail facilities. Unlike the original SOPARC, access to recreation time in jail required prior scheduling. Target areas were unnecessary as recreation spaces were enclosed. The adapted SOPARC protocol for jails included start and end times, the number of individuals that attended, and recreation time users’ physical activity levels, footwear, outerwear, uniform color, and use of mobility assistive devices. The use of SOPARC in the jail setting requires adaptation to adequately capture physical activity data among incarcerated individuals. Accurately measuring physical activity among incarcerated individuals and the environment in which they are active may allow for future development and testing of physical activity interventions in jail facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricky Camplain
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA; (T.A.P.); (H.J.W.); (G.P.); (L.B.); (J.A.B.)
- Department of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-928-523-5165
| | - Travis A. Pinn
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA; (T.A.P.); (H.J.W.); (G.P.); (L.B.); (J.A.B.)
| | - Heather J. Williamson
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA; (T.A.P.); (H.J.W.); (G.P.); (L.B.); (J.A.B.)
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
| | - George Pro
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA; (T.A.P.); (H.J.W.); (G.P.); (L.B.); (J.A.B.)
| | - Lyle Becenti
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA; (T.A.P.); (H.J.W.); (G.P.); (L.B.); (J.A.B.)
| | - James Bret
- Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA; (J.B.); (C.L.)
| | - Crystal Luna
- Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA; (J.B.); (C.L.)
| | - Julie A. Baldwin
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA; (T.A.P.); (H.J.W.); (G.P.); (L.B.); (J.A.B.)
- Department of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
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Aliyas Z, Jafari K. Observational physical activity in public open spaces: environmental determinants of physical activity intensity levels in Iran. Glob Health Promot 2019; 27:131-139. [PMID: 31875418 DOI: 10.1177/1757975919875391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Public open spaces play an important role in promoting physical activity (PA). This study aimed to describe user characteristics of public open spaces (POSs) given the type of location and levels of PA. The study also evaluated the relationship between the environmental determinants of POSs and PA intensity. The study used observational data to measure environmental determinants and obtain information on users and their activity levels in the POSs of Darab in Iran. Out of 13,342 individuals observed, the proportion of men was slightly higher than that of women. More than half of the users observed in the community parks performed vigorous activities. Children and teenagers were found more often than other age groups doing vigorous activities. Most of the observed users performed vigorous activities in the evening and sedentary activities during weekends. Seniors were more sedentary than the other groups. Greater size, and better facilities and aesthetics of POSs increased the odds of being more active. However, a higher number of incivilities was associated with a greater chance of walking and lower odds of performing vigorous activities. As the quality of POSs contributes to PA levels, stakeholders should consider the quality of such spaces to improve retrofitting and designing POSs to maximize activity levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Aliyas
- Department of Architecture, Bandar Abbas Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Keyvan Jafari
- Department of Architecture, Bandar Abbas Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bandar Abbas, Iran
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Marquet O, Hipp JA, Alberico C, Huang JH, Fry D, Mazak E, Lovasi GS, Floyd MF. Use of SOPARC to assess physical activity in parks: do race/ethnicity, contextual conditions, and settings of the target area, affect reliability? BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1730. [PMID: 31870351 PMCID: PMC6929368 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-8107-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Since its introduction in 2006, SOPARC (Systematic Observation of Play and Recreation in Communities) has become a fundamental tool to quantify park visitor behaviors and characteristics. We tested SOPARC reliability when assessing race/ethnicity, physical activity, contextual conditions at the time of observation, and settings of target areas to understand its utility when trying to account for individual characteristics of users. Methods We used 4725 SOPARC observations completed simultaneously by two independent observers to evaluate intraclass correlation and agreement rate between the two observers when trying to assess sex, age group, race/ethnicity, and level of physical activity of urban park users in different park settings. Observations were in 20 New York City parks during Spring and Summer 2017 within the PARC3 project. Results Observers counted 25,765 park users with high interobserver reliability (ICC = .94; %Agreement.75). Reliability scores were negatively affected by the population being observed, the intensity of physical activity, and the contextual conditions and settings of the target area at the time of observation. Specific challenges emerged when assessing the combination of physical activity and race/ethnicity. Conclusions SOPARC training should aim to improve reliability when assessing concurrent measures such as physical activity, race/ethnicity, age, and sex. Similarly, observing crowded park areas with many active users areas may require more observation practice hours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oriol Marquet
- ISGlobal Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - J Aaron Hipp
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Claudia Alberico
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Jing-Huei Huang
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Dustin Fry
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Mazak
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Gina S Lovasi
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Myron F Floyd
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
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Density of Green Spaces and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in the City of Madrid: The Heart Healthy Hoods Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16244918. [PMID: 31817351 PMCID: PMC6950753 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16244918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between the density of green spaces at different buffer sizes (300, 500, 1000 and 1500 m) and cardiovascular risk factors (obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes) as well as to study if the relationship is different for males and females. We conducted cross-sectional analyses using the baseline measures of the Heart Healthy Hoods study (N = 1625). We obtained data on the outcomes from clinical diagnoses, as well as anthropometric and blood sample measures. Exposure data on green spaces density at different buffer sizes were derived from the land cover distribution map of Madrid. Results showed an association between the density of green spaces within 300 and 500 m buffers with high cholesterol and diabetes, and an association between the density of green spaces within 1500 m buffer with hypertension. However, all of these associations were significant only in women. Study results, along with other evidence, may help policy-makers creating healthier environments that could reduce cardiovascular disease burden and reduce gender health inequities. Further research should investigate the specific mechanisms behind the differences by gender and buffer size of the relationship between green spaces and cardiovascular risk factors.
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Umstattd Meyer MR, Bridges Hamilton CN, Prochnow T, McClendon ME, Arnold KT, Wilkins E, Benavidez G, Williams TD, Abildso CG, Pollack Porter KM. Come together, play, be active: Physical activity engagement of school-age children at Play Streets in four diverse rural communities in the U.S. Prev Med 2019; 129:105869. [PMID: 31654727 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2019.105869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/12/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Across the U.S., Play Streets - temporary street closures creating safe places for play for a few hours- are being implemented in urban areas during summer. Play Streets have never been implemented or evaluated in rural communities but have the potential to address challenges residents face accessing safe physical activity opportunities in these areas. Community organizations in four diverse low-income rural communities (selected to represent African American, American Indian, Latino, or White, non-Hispanic populations) received mini-grants in 2017 to implement four, three-hour Play Streets during the summer focusing on school-aged children in elementary-to-middle school. Physical activity was measured using Digi-walker (Yamax-SW200) pedometers and the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC/iSOPARC). Sixteen Play Streets were implemented in rural Maryland, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Texas communities during June-September 2017. A total of 370 children (mean age = 8.81 years [SD = 2.75]; 55.0% female) wore pedometers across all 16 Play Streets (μ = 23.13 [SD = 8.59] children/Play Street). School-aged children with complete data (n = 353) wore pedometers for an average of 92.97 min (SD = 60.12) and accrued a mean of 42.08 steps/min (SD = 17.27), with no significant differences between boys (μ = 43.82, SD = 15.76) and girls (μ = 40.66, SD = 18.34). iSOPARC observations revealed no significant differences in child activity by sex; however, male teens were more active than female teens. Most adults were sedentary during Play Streets according to pedometer and iSOPARC data. Children in diverse rural communities are physically active at Play Streets. Play Streets are a promising intervention for promoting active play among children that lack safe opportunities to be active.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Renée Umstattd Meyer
- Baylor University, Department of Public Health, One Bear Place #97343, Waco, TX 76798, USA.
| | | | - T Prochnow
- Baylor University, College of Health and Human Sciences, One Bear Place #97311, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Megan E McClendon
- Baylor University, College of Health and Human Sciences, One Bear Place #97311, Waco, TX 76798, USA; Texas State University, USA
| | - Kimberly T Arnold
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Health Policy and Management, 624 N. Broadway, Hampton House 380A, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; University of Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Emily Wilkins
- Baylor University, Department of Public Health, One Bear Place #97343, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Gabriel Benavidez
- Baylor University, Department of Public Health, One Bear Place #97343, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Tiffany D Williams
- Gramercy Research Group, 7990 North Point Boulevard, Suite 108, Winston-Salem, NC 27106, USA
| | - Christiaan G Abildso
- West Virginia University School of Public Health, PO Box 9190, Morgantown, WV 26506-9190, USA
| | - Keshia M Pollack Porter
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Health Policy and Management, 624 N. Broadway, Hampton House 380A, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Derose KP, Han B, Park S, Williamson S, Cohen DA. The mediating role of perceived crime in gender and built environment associations with park use and park-based physical activity among park users in high poverty neighborhoods. Prev Med 2019; 129:105846. [PMID: 31518627 PMCID: PMC6886686 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2019.105846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Women use parks less for physical activity than men, and explanations include gendered concerns regarding personal safety and access to walking paths. This study conducted mediation analyses to examine the effects of gender and presence of park walking path on park use, participation in park programs, and park-based physical activity through the hypothesized mediator (perception of crime). The sample included 3213 park users from 48 parks in high poverty neighborhoods in Los Angeles surveyed between 2013 and 2015; park-level factors were assessed through systematic observations of study parks. Women reported fewer park visits than men in the last 7 days (β = -0.17, p = 0.02) and had significantly higher perceived crime (β = 0.12, p < 0.0001) and perceived crime partially mediated the gender association with park visits (βgender, direct = -0.09, p = 0.19; βgender, indirect = -0.07, p < 0.0001). Similarly, the existence of a walking path in the park was significantly related to increased park use (β = 0.27, p = 0.006) and a lower level of perceived crime (β = -0.25, p = 0.0034) and perceived crime partially mediated the association of walking path with park visits (βwalking path, direct = 0.18, p = 0.10; βwalking path, indirect = 0.15, p = 0.005). The associations between gender, walking path, and park-based exercise and program participation were not meaningfully mediated by perceived crime. Among park users in majority Latino, high poverty neighborhoods, addressing crime concerns are likely necessary to increase park use among women and adults whose parks do not have a walking path. For park-based exercise and participation in park programs, gendered preferences regarding park-based physical activity should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn P Derose
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States of America.
| | - Bing Han
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States of America.
| | - Sujeong Park
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States of America.
| | - Stephanie Williamson
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States of America.
| | - Deborah A Cohen
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States of America.
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Pollack Porter KM, Prochnow T, Mahoney P, Delgado H, Bridges Hamilton CN, Wilkins E, Umstattd Meyer MR. Transforming City Streets To Promote Physical Activity And Health Equity. Health Aff (Millwood) 2019; 38:1475-1483. [DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2019.00454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Keshia M. Pollack Porter
- Keshia M. Pollack Porter is a professor in the Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, in Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tyler Prochnow
- Tyler Prochnow is a doctoral student and research assistant in the Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Baylor University, in Waco, Texas
| | - Patricia Mahoney
- Patricia Mahoney is a research data analyst in the Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
| | - Haley Delgado
- Haley Delgado is a graduate student and a research assistant in the Department of Public Health, Baylor University
| | - Christina N. Bridges Hamilton
- Christina N. Bridges Hamilton is a doctoral candidate and a teaching and research assistant in the Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Baylor University
| | - Emily Wilkins
- Emily Wilkins is a graduate student and a research assistant in the Department of Public Health, Baylor University
| | - M. Renée Umstattd Meyer
- M. Renée Umstattd Meyer is an associate professor in the Department of Public Health, Baylor University
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Marquet O, Hipp JA, Alberico C, Huang JH, Fry D, Mazak E, Lovasi GS, Floyd MF. Short-term associations between objective crime, park-use, and park-based physical activity in low-income neighborhoods. Prev Med 2019; 126:105735. [PMID: 31150738 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2019.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Crime and safety perceptions are commonly cited barriers to park use and physical activity (PA). Given the importance of parks as settings for outdoor recreation and physical activity, the presence of crime may have a detrimental effect on public health. This study uses objective police crime reports and observational park use data to assess type of crime and the time when the crime was committed effects on park user behaviors in 20 parks located in low-income neighborhoods in New York City. The System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) was used to assess the number of park users and their physical activity during 78 park visits in Spring 2017. The association between crime rates and park use was assessed using two types of crimes (violent and property crimes). The timing of the crime was assessed using the crimes committed within periods of one week, one month, and three months prior to the visit to the park. By including objective measures of crime together with the exact time on which they were committed, we were able to analyze the short and long term effects of crime on park behavior. Overall, there was a consistent negative association between crime and park use. This relationship was stronger at the 1 month and 3 months' period and weaker at the 1-week period. Violent crimes were strongly associated with lower park use, and crimes proved to be associated with child park use to a greater degree. Girls were more affected by crime than boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oriol Marquet
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA; Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, NC, USA; ISGlobal, Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - J Aaron Hipp
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA; Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, NC, USA
| | - Claudia Alberico
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA; Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, NC, USA
| | - Jing-Huei Huang
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA; Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, NC, USA
| | - Dustin Fry
- Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elizabeth Mazak
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA; Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, NC, USA
| | - Gina S Lovasi
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Myron F Floyd
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, NC State University, NC, USA
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A Citizen Science Approach to Determine Physical Activity Patterns and Demographics of Greenway Users in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16173150. [PMID: 31470544 PMCID: PMC6747415 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16173150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Citizen science is a growing method of scientific discovery and community engagement. To date, there is a paucity of data using citizen scientists to monitor community level physical activity, such as bicycling or walking; these data are critical to inform community level intervention. Volunteers were recruited from the local community to make observations at five local greenways. The volunteers picked their location, time to collect data and duration of data collection. Volunteer observations included recording estimated age, race or ethnicity and activity level of each individual they encountered walking, running or bicycling on the greenway. A total of 102 volunteers were recruited to participate in the study, of which 60% completed one or more observations. Average observational time lasted 81 minutes and resulted in recording the demographics and physical activity of a mean of 48 people per session. The majority of adult bicyclists observed were biking at a moderate pace (86%) and were white (72%) males (62%). Similar results were observed for those walking. We demonstrate the feasibility of using citizen scientists to address the current scarcity of data describing community-level physical activity behavior patterns. Future work should focus on refining the citizen science approach for the collection of physical activity data to inform community-specific interventions in order to increase greenway use.
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66
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Wang H, Dai X, Wu J, Wu X, Nie X. Influence of urban green open space on residents' physical activity in China. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1093. [PMID: 31409316 PMCID: PMC6693084 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7416-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Urban green open space is a valuable resource for physical activities of urban inhabitants and has the potential to reduce chronic illness and improve health. Research on the relationships between green open space and physical activity is incomplete and limited in China. Thus, the study examines how the urban green open space contributes to physical activity. Methods A questionnaire was designed based on the social ecology theory to investigate the physical activity of 513 residents in urban green open space. We use the time and frequency of residents exercising in urban green space to measure physical activity, and use the factor analysis to synthesize a large number of original factors (i.e., infrastructure, safety, accessibility, landscape quality, and space environment) into relatively few composite indicators. Based on the collected data of the cross-sectional population, the Order Probit regression model was constructed to analyze how urban green open space affects the residents’ physical activity from the perspective of social ecology. Results ① in community factors: accessibility is significantly positive correlation with residents’ physical activity, and there is no significant correlation between safety and physical activity; ②in natural factors: space environment and landscape quality are not significantly correlated with residents’ physical activity; ③ in built environmental factors: infrastructures, the area of green space, the size of open space, and entertainment facilities are significantly correlated to residents’ activity. Basketball courts, volleyball courts, swimming pools, and sports equipment will promote physical activity; ④ apart from the attributes of green open space, other factors are significantly correlated to physical activity in the green open space, e.g. having a companion. Conclusions Urban green open space plays an important role in promoting physical activity especially among the women and the old, and improving the attributes (such as accessibility, infrastructures, the area of green space, the size of open space and entertainment facilities) of the urban green open space and trying to set up group sports proper to play with companion (like “square dancing” and “Tai Chi”) can promote Chinese residents’ physical activity so as to improve public health. The results are significant to facilitate environment health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Wang
- School of Public Administration, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.,Department of City and Regional Planning, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Xiaoling Dai
- School of Public Administration, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China.,China Construction Fourth Bureau Construction Development Co., Ltd., Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jinglan Wu
- School of Public Administration, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xingyi Wu
- School of Public Administration, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xin Nie
- School of Public Administration, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China. .,Department of City and Regional Planning, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA.
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Parra DC, Van Zandt A, Wang P, Goodman M, Abhishek J, Haire-Joshu D, Brownson RC. Evaluating Park Use and Satisfaction: The Case of Trojan Park in St. Louis Missouri. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16152798. [PMID: 31390742 PMCID: PMC6696297 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16152798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Providing public access to exercise and play is vital for health promotion across populations. We evaluated the use of and satisfaction at Trojan Park, a multigenerational playground with multiple activity areas and fitness zones in the city of Wellston in St. Louis County, MO. Methods: We used video footage and the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC), which is a valid and reliable system for collecting data on physical activity in parks. We then performed intercept interviews to gather user information and measure overall satisfaction with the park. Results: The park received a variety of attendees across age groups, with children and middle-aged adults representing 41.1% and 50.3% of total park users, respectively. During the time observed, 47% of attendees were engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), 22% were engaged in light physical activity (walking), and 30% were sedentary. We also observed participants spending the most time on the basketball court (38%), playground (28%), and picnic (17%) areas. Park users traveled a wide range of distances to access the park and the overwhelming majority reported a high level of satisfaction. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that multigenerational playgrounds with access to various activities and fitness zones may provide social and physical health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana C Parra
- Program in Physical Therapy, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, 4444 Forest Park Ave, Campus Box 8502, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA.
| | - Alexandria Van Zandt
- Program in Physical Therapy, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, 4444 Forest Park Ave, Campus Box 8502, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA
| | - Peter Wang
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA
| | - Micah Goodman
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA
| | - Janardan Abhishek
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Debra Haire-Joshu
- Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
- Center for Diabetes Translation Research, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Ross C Brownson
- Prevention Research Center in St. Louis, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, 1 Brookings Drive, Campus Box 1196, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
- Department of Surgery (Division of Public Health Sciences) and Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
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68
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Budd KM, Mancini C, Bierie DM. Parks, Playgrounds, and Incidents of Sexual Assault. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2019; 31:580-606. [PMID: 30191750 DOI: 10.1177/1079063218797712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
In the United States, certain laws restrict those convicted of sexually offending from accessing social spaces where youth congregate such as parks and playgrounds. However, empirical work to date has rarely described sexual assaults in these locations or tested the assumptions of these laws explicitly. To address these gaps in the literature, we drew on the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) to analyze offender, victim, and crime characteristics of sexual assaults that occurred at parks and playgrounds over a 5-year period (2010-2015). Estimated via multivariate logistic regression, results showed support for these law's assumptions when analyzing this particular location. However, stranger perpetrators were significantly more likely to sexually assault adult victims versus youth victims. Several other offense features distinguished youth versus adult victim sexual assault incidents at parks and playgrounds, such as the offender age, the use of force, and the injuries sustained by the victim. Collectively, these findings both support and challenge these types of social space restriction laws.
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69
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Associations between Neighborhood Open Space Features and Walking and Social Interaction in Older Adults-A Mixed Methods Study. Geriatrics (Basel) 2019; 4:geriatrics4030041. [PMID: 31284590 PMCID: PMC6787595 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics4030041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Neighborhood Open Spaces (NOS) such as public spaces around people’s homes, parks and village greens, may support activity and socializing for older adults. These spaces might be especially important for older adults as they typically are less mobile and have smaller activity spaces and social networks than other age groups. The present exploratory sequential mixed methods study investigates the association between built environment features, social interaction, and walking within NOS, among older adults living in a low socio-economic neighborhood in Copenhagen. Interviews, the Community Park Audit Tool, and the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) were used to capture quantitative and qualitative data on 353 older adults (59–90 years old) within 11 NOS. Walking was predicted by the condition and shade along paths, seating and landscaping. Social interaction was negatively associated with walking, suggesting that older adults tend to sit down when engaging in social activities. Interviews highlighted the importance of social interaction within NOS. Future designs of NOS should acknowledge the importance of social meeting places, but at the same time provide walkable spaces for older adults to promote healthy aging.
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70
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Evenson KR, Williamson S, Han B, McKenzie TL, Cohen DA. United States' neighborhood park use and physical activity over two years: The National Study of Neighborhood Parks. Prev Med 2019; 123:117-122. [PMID: 30898586 PMCID: PMC6534437 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2019.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The United States lacks surveillance to monitor park use and conditions. The purpose of this study was to use the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) as a surveillance tool to describe the conditions, user characteristics, and physical activity of a national sample of neighborhood parks at two time points. Using a stratified multistage sampling strategy, a representative sample of 174 neighborhood parks in 25 major United States' cities were selected. During 2014 and 2016, park-related use, conditions, and physical activity were assessed using SOPARC in 169 parks. Overall, 74,106 park users were observed at baseline and 69,150 park users were observed two years later (p = 0.37). There were persistent disparities in park use by gender and age, with disproportionately more male than female users in each age group (child, teenager, adult, older adult). Older adults used the park less than other age groups. Almost two-thirds of park users were observed being sedentary (61.9% in 2014, 60.7% in 2016), followed by moderate (30.8%, 32.0%) and vigorous (7.3%, 7.3%) activity. Empty target areas increased over two years (75.3%, 77.6%; p = 0.01) and those that were equipped (2.6%, 1.2%; p = 0.0003), accessible (95.4%, 94.3%; p = 0.01), and organized (2.6%, 1.7%; p = 0.01) decreased. Areas that were usable (97.5%, 97.4%) or provided supervised activities (2.0%, 2.4%) did not change significantly. The findings demonstrate the value of SOPARC as a surveillance tool, identify user groups under represented at parks, and suggest an opportunity to encourage more park-based physical activity among park visitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly R Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, 123 W Franklin Street, Building C, Suite 410, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States.
| | | | - Bing Han
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90407, United States.
| | - Thomas L McKenzie
- School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University, 5127 Walsh Way, San Diego, CA 92115, United States.
| | - Deborah A Cohen
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90407, United States.
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71
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Cohen DA, Han B, Park S, Williamson S, Derose KP. Park Use and Park-Based Physical Activity in Low-Income Neighborhoods. J Aging Phys Act 2019; 27:334-342. [PMID: 30160585 PMCID: PMC7494055 DOI: 10.1123/japa.2018-0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Routine physical activity is important for everyone, and most urban areas have an infrastructure of neighborhood parks that are intended to serve as a setting for recreation and leisure. However, parks are not used proportionally by all age groups, genders, and socioeconomic groups. This paper explores factors associated with park use by different age and gender groups in low-income neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA. We found that women's visits to parks generally centered around children, whereas men's visits were more likely to be associated with their own physical activity. Barriers for seniors are associated with limited facilities and programming that meet their needs. Park managers should consider park renovations that include social meeting places, comfortable sitting areas, and walking paths to better serve women and seniors.
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72
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Lee HJ, Lee DK, Song W. Relationships between Social Capital, Social Capital Satisfaction, Self-Esteem, and Depression among Elderly Urban Residents: Analysis of Secondary Survey Data. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16081445. [PMID: 31018623 PMCID: PMC6517880 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16081445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The role that psychological variables play in depression among elderly urban residents has received little research attention. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between social capital, social capital satisfaction, self-esteem, and depression among elderly urban residents. We used the responses provided by 701 elderly persons to scales assessing social capital (i.e., network, trust), social capital satisfaction, self-esteem, and depression, as part of the Korea Welfare Panel Study (KOWEPS). We conducted a confirmatory factor analysis and tested the validity of a proposed statistical model using structural equation modeling (SEM). The results showed that trust in social capital, social capital satisfaction, and self-esteem were significantly related to depression. Further, social capital satisfaction and self-esteem fully and partially mediated the relationship between trust and depression, respectively. These findings serve as an empirical base upon which social welfare policies can be founded that benefit elderly urban residents with weak social capital, low social capital satisfaction, and poor self-esteem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jin Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program in Landscape Architecture, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
| | - Dong Kun Lee
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Rural System Engineering, Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
| | - Wonkyong Song
- Department of Landscape Architecture, Dankook University, 119, Dandae-ro, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan, Chungnam 330-714, Korea.
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Mueller JT, Park SY, Mowen AJ. The relationship between parks and recreation per capita spending and mortality from 1980 to 2010: A fixed effects model. Prev Med Rep 2019; 14:100827. [PMID: 30815338 PMCID: PMC6377401 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2019.100827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence concerning the link between park access, use, programming and health has continued to grow. However, government funding for parks and recreation is highly susceptible to the ebbs and flows of the national economy. Given this, the purpose of this study was to test the relationship between county area spending on parks and recreation operations and all-cause mortality in the United States from the years 1980–2010. Using data from 1980 to 2010 collected from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, we analyzed the relationship between per capita county area spending on parks and recreation and county-level all-cause age-standardized female, male, and overall mortality using county and year fixed effects as well as relevant time-variant controls. The study was conducted during 2017 and 2018. County area spending on parks and recreation was negatively associated with overall and female-specific mortality from 1980 to 2010. According to our models for female and overall all-cause age-standardized mortality, when holding all else equal, a hundred-dollar increase in 2010 dollars in per capita parks and recreation operational expenditures was associated with an average decrease in morality of 3.9 and 3.4 deaths per 100,000, respectively. Although not commonly viewed as a form of healthcare spending, increased government funding for parks and recreation services had a significant association with decreased county level mortality. Our results suggest higher levels of per capita spending on parks and recreation may lead to lower levels of mortality. Higher per-capita parks and recreation spending was associated with lower all-cause mortality. The relationship held for female and overall mortality, but not male. Increased parks and recreation spending was associated with decreased mortality. Increasing government spending on parks and recreation may improve public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Tom Mueller
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology, and Education, College of Agricultural Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, Armsby Building, University Park, PA 16802, United States of America
| | - So Young Park
- Department of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management, College of Health and Human Development, The Pennsylvania State University, 801 Donald H. Ford Building, University Park, PA 16802, United States of America
| | - Andrew J Mowen
- Department of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management, College of Health and Human Development, The Pennsylvania State University, 801 Donald H. Ford Building, University Park, PA 16802, United States of America
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Prince SA, Butler GP, Rao DP, Thompson W. Evidence synthesis - Where are children and adults physically active and sedentary? - a rapid review of location-based studies. Health Promot Chronic Dis Prev Can 2019; 39:67-103. [PMID: 30869472 PMCID: PMC6478053 DOI: 10.24095/hpcdp.39.3.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Geographical positioning systems (GPS) have the capacity to provide further context around where physical activity (PA) and sedentary time (ST) are accrued especially when overlaid onto objectively measured movement. The objective of this rapid review was to summarize evidence from location-based studies which employed the simultaneous use of GPS and objective measures of PA and/or ST. METHODS Six databases were searched to identify studies that employed the simultaneous use of GPS and objective measures of PA or ST to quantify location of movement. Risk of bias was assessed, and a qualitative synthesis completed. RESULTS Searching identified 3446 articles; 59 were included in the review. A total of 22 studies in children, 17 in youth and 20 in adults were captured. The active transportation environment emerged as an important location for moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) in children, youth and adults. In children and youth, the school is an important location for MVPA, especially the schoolyard for children. Indoor locations (e.g., schools, homes) appear to be greater sources of lighter intensities of PA and ST. The review was limited by a lack of standardization in the nomenclature used to describe the locations and methods, as well as measures of variance. CONCLUSION Evidence suggests that the active transportation environment is a potentially important contributor of MVPA across an individual's lifespan. There is a need for future location-based studies to report on locations of all intensity of movement (including minutes and proportion) using a whole-day approach in larger representative samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Prince
- Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Cardiac Prevention and Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Deepa P Rao
- Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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The Relationships between Park Quality, Park Usage, and Levels of Physical Activity in Low-Income, African American Neighborhoods. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 16:ijerph16010085. [PMID: 30598003 PMCID: PMC6338998 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16010085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Parks can be an important, low-cost neighborhood resource to increase physical activity and reduce overweight and obesity. The quality of parks, however, may impact use. This study used observational data to examine the relationships between park quality, park usage and levels of physical activity among users in 31 parks within low-income, African American neighborhoods. Relationships between park use and park characteristics (signs of disorder, attractiveness, and number of activity settings) varied by gender and user activity level. No variables of interest were significant for overall number of male users; whereas, disorder and attractiveness were significant for overall number of female users. Parks with signs of disorder were associated with 49% fewer female users (IRR = 0.51, 95% CI = (0.34–0.77)) and attractive parks with 146% more female users (IRR = 2.46, 95% CI = (1.39–4.33)). Similar significant relationships were found among active but not sedentary female users. Communities may consider increasing park maintenance and addressing attractiveness in existing parks as a relatively low-cost environmental strategy to encourage park use, increase physical activity, and reduce the burden of obesity, especially among women in low-income, African-American communities.
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Pérez-Tejera F, Valera S, Anguera MT. Using Systematic Observation and Polar Coordinates Analysis to Assess Gender-Based Differences in Park Use in Barcelona. Front Psychol 2018; 9:2299. [PMID: 30542307 PMCID: PMC6277760 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper aims to assess gender differences in the usage of public open spaces (POS), as an everyday context. Forty POS in the city of Barcelona were studied over 3 months using systematic observation. To objectively measure park use, an observational instrument (EXOdES) was purposely designed combining a field format and several category systems. The instrument facilitated the record of configurations or co-occurrences of codes from different dimensions (i.g., time of day, age, race/ethnicity, activity setting, activity, and presence of vehicles), providing contextually rich data of more than 35,000 individuals and groups and the setting in which the activity occurs. Although a similar overall proportion of males and females were found using POS (55 vs. 45%), important differences by gender were found between people being alone (66 vs. 34%), and groups (53 vs. 47%). To identify regular patterns in the way that men and women use public parks, information on more than 18,000 groups of people was analyzed as a global data set. A multievent sequential analysis was performed considering gender composition as the given behaviors (i.e., groups of males, females, and gendered mixed). Thus, polar coordinates analysis was also performed, because it is a suitable reduction data technique in studies with a broad observational instrument and a large database. Results show important gendered and cultural differences in POS use. Women tend to reproduce traditional gender role, being often more engaged in care functions with children and elders rather than in any other activity or with people of their same age group. Of particular concern is the gap on park use observed in women of ethnic minority groups. Assessing specific group needs on park use is particularly relevant attending to their multiple health and social benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Félix Pérez-Tejera
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Social Environmental and Organizational Psychology Research Group (PsicoSAO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergi Valera
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Social Environmental and Organizational Psychology Research Group (PsicoSAO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - M. Teresa Anguera
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Evenson KR, Cho GH, Rodríguez DA, Cohen DA. Park use and physical activity among adolescent girls at two time points. J Sports Sci 2018; 36:2544-2550. [PMID: 29708015 PMCID: PMC6089639 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2018.1469225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
This longitudinal study described park usage and assessed the contribution of parks to moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) among adolescent girls. High school girls from California (n = 131) and Minnesota (n = 134) wore a global positioning system (GPS) monitor and accelerometer for 6 consecutive days at two time points, one year apart. Park visits were classified by linking the GPS, accelerometer, and park and built environment data around home and school locations into a geographic information system. At baseline, 20% of girls visited a park at least once (mean 0.1 times/day), which was similar one year later (19%, mean 0.1 times/day). Girls lived a mean Euclidean distance of 0.2 miles to the nearest park at both times. Among all park visits, the mean Euclidean distance of the park visited was 4.1 (baseline) and 3.9 miles (follow-up). The average duration of park visits was higher at baseline (63.9 minutes) compared to follow-up (38.4 minutes). On days when a park was visited, MVPA was higher than on days when a park was not visited. On average, 1.9% (baseline) and 2.8% (follow-up) of MVPA occurred in parks. In this study, parks were an under-used resource for adolescent girls, particularly for MVPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly R. Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, US
| | - Gi-Hyoug Cho
- School of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, Ulsan, Korea
- Department of City and Regional Planning, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, US
| | - Daniel A. Rodríguez
- Department of City and Regional Planning, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, US
- Department of City and Regional Planning, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, US
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Vaughan CA, Cohen DA, Han B. How Do Racial/Ethnic Groups Differ in Their Use of Neighborhood Parks? Findings from the National Study of Neighborhood Parks. J Urban Health 2018; 95:739-749. [PMID: 29916006 PMCID: PMC6181824 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-018-0278-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The current study examined racial/ethnic differences in use of parks and park facilities and features and self-reported park use and perceptions. We conducted observations in a nationally representative sample of 193 neighborhood parks in 27 US cities over a 1-week period between April and August of 2016 using the System of Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). To determine the propensity of different racial/ethnic groups to use parks relative to expectation based on their representation in the surrounding neighborhood, we calculated the percentages of park users of each race/ethnicity and compared these to the percentages of racial/ethnic groups residing in the neighborhood within a 1-mile radius of the park based on 2010 U.S. Census data. In the same parks, we administered an intercept survey to assess park users' self-reported use and perceptions of the park (N = 1872). We examined racial/ethnic differences in self-reported use and perceptions of parks using GEE models that adjusted for several individual- and park-level covariates. Hispanics comprised a disproportionate percentage of observed park users. Racial/ethnic groups generally did not differ in their self-reported park use and perceptions, except for the social context of park visits. In adjusted models, Hispanics had significantly higher odds of visiting with a child family member (OR = 1.44) and lower odds of visiting alone than non-Hispanic whites (OR = .55). Findings highlight Hispanics' greater propensity to use parks and indicate that parks may serve a communal purpose for Hispanics that they do not serve for other racial/ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Deborah A Cohen
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main St, P.O. Box 2138, Santa Monica, CA, 90407-2138, USA
| | - Bing Han
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main St, P.O. Box 2138, Santa Monica, CA, 90407-2138, USA
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Carlson JA, Hipp JA, Kerr J, Horowitz TS, Berrigan D. Unique Views on Obesity-Related Behaviors and Environments: Research Using Still and Video Images. JOURNAL FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF PHYSICAL BEHAVIOUR 2018; 1:143-154. [PMID: 31263802 PMCID: PMC6602079 DOI: 10.1123/jmpb.2018-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To document challenges to and benefits from research involving the use of images by capturing examples of such research to assess physical activity- or nutrition-related behaviors and/or environments. METHODS Researchers (i.e., key informants) using image capture in their research were identified through knowledge and networks of the authors of this paper and through literature search. Twenty-nine key informants completed a survey covering the type of research, source of images, and challenges and benefits experienced, developed specifically for this study. RESULTS Most respondents used still images in their research, with only 26.7% using video. Image sources were categorized as participant generated (n = 13; e.g., participants using smartphones for dietary assessment), researcher generated (n = 10; e.g., wearable cameras with automatic image capture), or curated from third parties (n = 7; e.g., Google Street View). Two of the major challenges that emerged included the need for automated processing of large datasets (58.8%) and participant recruitment/compliance (41.2%). Benefit-related themes included greater perspectives on obesity with increased data coverage (34.6%) and improved accuracy of behavior and environment assessment (34.6%). CONCLUSIONS Technological advances will support the increased use of images in the assessment of physical activity, nutrition behaviors, and environments. To advance this area of research, more effective collaborations are needed between health and computer scientists. In particular development of automated data extraction methods for diverse aspects of behavior, environment, and food characteristics are needed. Additionally, progress in standards for addressing ethical issues related to image capture for research purposes is critical.
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Youth and Adult Visitation and Physical Activity Intensity at Rural and Urban Parks. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15081760. [PMID: 30115825 PMCID: PMC6121499 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15081760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Less physical activity among rural residents may contribute to rural-urban health disparities. Parks can be ideal community resources for promoting physical activity. This study compared park visitation and activity intensity at 15 urban and 15 rural parks matched for acreage and amenities. Parks were observed in the morning, afternoon, and evening on 4 days to determine number of visitors, activity intensity, and amenity use. A total of 5486 visitors were observed with no differences in percentages of males (55.5% vs. 53.9%) and females (44.5% vs. 46.1%) or percentages of weekday (82.4% vs. 81.9%) and weekend (17.6% vs. 18.1%) visitors. The probability of visitors sitting was greater and in moderate intensity activity lower at rural parks. A greater proportion of children (25.0% vs. 14.5%) in rural parks, and teens in urban parks (8.0% vs. 69.6%), were observed on sport fields. A greater proportion of adults in urban areas (12.5% vs. 46.0%) were observed spectating sports. Greater proportions of rural children (10.9% vs. 3.5%), teens (34.1% vs. 12.4%), and adults (38.9% vs. 10.1%) were observed using shelters. Thus, when similar amenities are available, rural and urban parks are used differently, especially by youth. The urban park study results cannot be wholly applied to rural parks.
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Li Y, Yatsuya H, Hanibuchi T, Hirakawa Y, Ota A, Uemura M, Chiang C, Otsuka R, Murata C, Tamakoshi K, Toyoshima H, Aoyama A. The association between objective measures of residence and worksite neighborhood environment, and self-reported leisure-time physical activities: The Aichi Workers' Cohort Study. Prev Med Rep 2018; 11:282-289. [PMID: 30116699 PMCID: PMC6082790 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2018.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The possible effects of a neighborhood's built environment on physical activity have not been studied in Asian countries as much as in Western countries. The present study cross-sectionally examined the relationship between geographic information system (GIS) measured residence and worksite neighborhood walkability, and the number of parks/green spaces and sports facilities within a 1 km radius of home and workplace, with self-reported leisure-time habitual (3–4 times per week or more) walking and moderate-to-vigorous intensity habitual exercise among local government workers aged 18 to 64 years living in an urban-suburban area of Aichi, Japan in 2013. A single-level binomial regression model was used to estimate the multivariable odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Of the 1959 male and 884 female participants, 288 (15%) and 141 (16%) reported habitual walking, respectively, and 18% and 17% reported habitual exercise, respectively. Compared with women who resided in neighborhood with a walkability index of 4–30, those living in an area with that of 35–40 were significantly more likely to engage in leisure-time habitual exercise (multivariable OR: 1.70, 95% CI: 1.08–2.68). Marginally significant positive associations were found between leisure-time habitual exercise and the residential neighborhood's number of parks/green spaces among women, as well as the number of sports facilities among men. In conclusion, a residential neighborhood environment characterized by higher walkability may contribute to the initiation or maintenance of moderate-to-vigorous intensity leisure-time exercise among working women living in an urban-suburban area of Japan. Residential neighborhood walkability was associated with exercise habits of women. No features of residential neighborhood were related to walking habits in both sexes. No association was found for worksite neighborhood environmental features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanying Li
- Department of Public Health, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yatsuya
- Department of Public Health, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan.,Department of Public Health and Health Systems, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Tomoya Hanibuchi
- School of International Liberal Studies, Chukyo University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Hirakawa
- Department of Public Health and Health Systems, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Atsuhiko Ota
- Department of Public Health, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Mayu Uemura
- Department of Public Health and Health Systems, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Chifa Chiang
- Department of Public Health and Health Systems, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Rei Otsuka
- National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Aichi, Japan
| | - Chiyoe Murata
- National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Aichi, Japan
| | - Koji Tamakoshi
- Department of Nursing, Nagoya University School of Health Science, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hideaki Toyoshima
- Rehabili-Park Kurokawa, Geriatric Health Service Facility, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Atsuko Aoyama
- Department of Public Health and Health Systems, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
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Hobbs M, Griffiths C, Green MA, Jordan H, Saunders J, McKenna J. Neighbourhood typologies and associations with body mass index and obesity: A cross-sectional study. Prev Med 2018; 111:351-357. [PMID: 29195761 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2017.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Little research has investigated associations between a combined measure of the food and physical activity (PA) environment, BMI (body-mass-index) and obesity. Cross-sectional data (n=22,889, age 18-86years) from the Yorkshire Health Study were used [2010-2013]. BMI was calculated using self-reported height and weight; obesity=BMI≥30. Neighbourhood was defined as a 2km radial buffer. Food outlets and PA facilities were sourced from Ordnance Survey Points of Interest (PoI) and categorised into 'fast-food', 'large supermarkets', 'convenience and other food retail outlets' and 'physical activity facilities'. Parks were sourced from Open Street Map. Latent class analysis was conducted on these five environmental variables and availability was defined by quartiles of exposure. Linear and logistic regressions were then conducted for BMI and obesity respectively for different neighbourhood types. Models adjusted for age, gender, ethnicity, area-level deprivation, and rural/urban classification. A five-class solution demonstrated best fit and was interpretable. Neighbourhood typologies were defined as; 'low availability', 'moderate availability', 'moderate PA, limited food', 'saturated' and 'moderate PA, ample food'. Compared to low availability, one typology demonstrated lower BMI (saturated, b=-0.50, [95% CI=-0.76, -0.23]), while three showed higher BMI (moderate availability, b=0.49 [0.27, 0.72]; moderate PA, limited food, b=0.30 [0.01, 0.59]; moderate PA, ample food, b=0.32 [0.08, 0.57]). Furthermore, compared to the low availability, saturated neighbourhoods showed lower odds of obesity (OR=0.86 [0.75, 0.99]) while moderate availability showed greater odds of obesity (OR=1.18 [1.05, 1.32]). This study supports population-level approaches to tackling obesity however neighbourhoods contained features that were health-promoting and -constraining.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Hobbs
- School of Sport, Carnegie, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS6 3QT, UK.; School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds, UK..
| | - C Griffiths
- School of Sport, Carnegie, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS6 3QT, UK
| | - M A Green
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - H Jordan
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - J Saunders
- Carnegie, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS6 3QT, UK
| | - J McKenna
- School of Sport, Carnegie, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS6 3QT, UK
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83
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Huang NC, Kung SF, Hu SC. The Relationship between Urbanization, the Built Environment, and Physical Activity among Older Adults in Taiwan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E836. [PMID: 29695078 PMCID: PMC5981875 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15050836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Urbanization and ageing are global phenomena and offer unique challenges in different countries. A supportive environment plays a critical role in addressing the issue of behavioral change and health promotion among older adults. Many studies in the U.S., EU, and Australia have considered promoting physical activity in the community based on ecological models, whereas very few Asian studies have examined the relationships among urbanization, the built environment and physical activity in elderly at the ecological level, especially from a multi-level perspective. Due to the prevalence of post-war baby boomers and a very low birth-rate, the older population (aged 65 years old and older) in Taiwan has increased rapidly since 2011 and has exceeded the younger generation (0⁻14 years old) in 2017. Hence, the purpose of this study was first to examine the degree of urbanization in townships and the status of related built environments in Taiwan and then to investigate whether the built environment is associated with recommended amounts of physical activity among older adults. Three national datasets and a multi-level design were used in this research. Data at the individual level was obtained from the 2009 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) which was taken from June 2009 to February 2010. Ecological data was obtained from the 2006 National Land Use Investigation of the National Geographic Information System and the 2010 Population and Housing Census. The analyses included a descriptive analysis, a bivariate analysis, a multiple logistic regression, and a multi-level analysis, utilizing a mostly hierarchical linear model (HLM). The results showed a significant relationship between factors at the environmental levels and physical activity in older adults. Urbanization, the built environment, and the median income of townships were positively correlated to the physical activity of the older adults. After controlling for individual-level factors, urbanization still exhibited this correlation. Parks and green spaces were associated with achieving the recommended amount of physical activity. However, there was no relationship after controlling for factors at the individual level. Detailed discussions were provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuan-Ching Huang
- Department of Urban Planning, College of Planning & Design, National Cheng Kung University, No.1, University Road, Tainan City 701, Taiwan.
| | - Shiann-Far Kung
- Department of Urban Planning, College of Planning & Design, National Cheng Kung University, No.1, University Road, Tainan City 701, Taiwan.
| | - Susan C Hu
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, No.1, University Road, Tainan City 701, Taiwan.
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Douglas JA, Briones MD, Bauer EZ, Trujillo M, Lopez M, Subica AM. Social and environmental determinants of physical activity in urban parks: Testing a neighborhood disorder model. Prev Med 2018; 109:119-124. [PMID: 29366818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2018.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Revised: 12/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The current study examined the nexus of neighborhood disorder-in the form of physical disorder (e.g., broken glass and vandalism) and social disorder (e.g., public drinking and lewd conduct)-and physical activity (PA) in urban public parks to inform public policy addressing chronic disease in at-risk populations. Five hundred and twenty-two unique observations were conducted in 22 public parks from March to September 2016. The study utilized the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) to document age, gender, ethnicity, and PA level of park users. The Physical Activity Resource Assessment (PARA) was used to document observed physical and social disorder incivilities in public parks included in the current study. Males, adults, and Latina/os accounted for the largest number of park users, respectively. Significant PA differences were observed across gender, age, and ethnicity. Multiple linear regression controlling for gender, age, and ethnicity found physical disorder, but not social disorder, generally predicted PA reductions. While it has been demonstrated that physical disorder predicts PA reductions in low-income communities of color, this is the first study to reveal that physical disorder may lead to decreased PA in urban public parks. Thus, remediation of public park incivilities characterized by physical disorder, paired with community outreach, may lead to increased PA in at-risk communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A Douglas
- San José State University, Department of Environmental Studies, San José, CA, United States.
| | - Maya D Briones
- San José State University, Department of Environmental Studies, San José, CA, United States
| | - Eliane Z Bauer
- San José State University, Department of Environmental Studies, San José, CA, United States
| | - Melissa Trujillo
- San José State University, Department of Environmental Studies, San José, CA, United States
| | - Melissa Lopez
- San José State University, Department of Environmental Studies, San José, CA, United States
| | - Andrew M Subica
- University of California, Riverside School of Medicine, Riverside, CA, United States
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85
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Physical Activity in Public Parks of High and Low Socioeconomic Status in Colombia Using Observational Methods. J Phys Act Health 2018; 15:581-591. [PMID: 29587573 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2017-0318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public parks are an important resource for the promotion of physical activity (PA). This is the first study in Colombia and the fourth in Latin America to describe the characteristics of park users and their levels of PA using objective measures. METHODS A systematic observation assessed sex, age, and the level of PA of users of 10 parks in an intermediate-size city in Colombia, classified in low (5 parks) and high (5 parks) socioeconomic status (SES). A total of 10 daily observations were conducted, in 5 days of the week during 3 periods: morning, afternoon, and evening. RESULTS In total, 16,671 observations were completed, recording 46,047 users. A higher number of users per park, per day, were recorded in high SES (1195) versus low SES (647). More men were observed in low-SES than high-SES parks (70.1% vs 54.2%), as well as more children were observed in low-SES than high-SES parks (30.1% vs 15.9%). Older adults in high-SES parks were more frequent (9.5% vs 5.2%). Moderate to vigorous PA was higher in low-SES parks (71.7% vs 63.2%). CONCLUSIONS Low-SES parks need more green spaces, walk/bike trails, and areas for PA. All parks need new programs to increase the number of users and their PA level, considering sex, age group, and period of the week.
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Derose KP, Han B, Williamson S, Cohen DA. Gender Disparities in Park Use and Physical Activity among Residents of High-Poverty Neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Womens Health Issues 2018; 28:6-13. [PMID: 29241943 PMCID: PMC5753770 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Revised: 11/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Physical inactivity is more prevalent among women than men and is related to poor health outcomes. Neighborhood parks constitute an important resource for physical activity (PA), however, previous studies of park users have found fewer women being physically active. METHODS We conducted a hierarchical mixed-effect regression analysis of the independent associations between gender and park use and PA among a population-based sample in high-poverty neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Data sources included 1) structured interviews with adults (≥18 years of age) in randomly selected households within 1 mile of study parks (n = 2,973), 2) systematic observations of study parks (n = 48), and 3) neighborhood characteristics from the 2010 U.S. Census. RESULTS After controlling for race/ethnicity, education, body mass index of 30 kg/m2 or greater, health status, proximity to park, having children under the age of 18, perceived park safety, estimated screen time, and park- and neighborhood-level variables, statistically significant differences were found between women and men on all outcomes. Compared with men, women reported fewer park visits in the past week (-0.28 times/week; p < .001) and shorter durations of a typical park visit (-11.11 min/visit; p < .001). Women were also less likely than men to report levels of PA that meet national guidelines (≥150 minutes of moderate to vigorous PA per week; risk difference = -0.06; p < .01) or to exercise in the park (risk difference = -0.13; p < .001) or elsewhere (risk difference = -0.13; p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Women living in high-poverty neighborhoods use parks less for PA than men. Improved park-level design, programming, and other policy interventions may be needed to mitigate disparities in park use and PA for all.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bing Han
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
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Renaud LR, Huysmans MA, Speklé EM, van der Beek AJ, van der Ploeg HP. 'The End of Sitting' in a public space: observations of spontaneous visitors. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:937. [PMID: 29216860 PMCID: PMC5721657 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4971-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sitting too much has been associated with negative health outcomes. 'The End of Sitting' is a newly developed office landscape that moves away from the traditional chair-desk setup. The landscape aims to reduce sitting time by offering a variety of (supported) standing positions. The aim of this study was to determine the usage of the landscape after being placed in the main entrance hall of the VU University in Amsterdam. METHODS We observed the number of spontaneous visitors as well as the duration of visits, changes to another location within the landscape, and adopted postures. Using questionnaires reasons (not) to visit the landscape, perceived affordances of the landscape and associations with long-term use were determined. RESULTS Observed numbers of visitors were relatively low and duration of visits were short, which seemed to indicate visitors were trying out the landscape. The majority of visitors were in an upright position, reflecting the designers' intentions. Visitors indicated that long-term use would be pleasant to them. CONCLUSION 'The End of Sitting' landscape received positive reactions but number of visits were limited in the few months that it was placed in the university main entrance hall. The landscape might be better suited for designated working or study spaces, for which it was originally intended. It might also be worth to explore the landscapes suitability for short stay environments, such as waiting rooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidewij R Renaud
- Department of Public and Occupational Health and Amsterdam Public Health research institute, VU University Medical Center, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081, BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike A Huysmans
- Department of Public and Occupational Health and Amsterdam Public Health research institute, VU University Medical Center, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081, BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erwin M Speklé
- Arbo Unie OHS, Diakenhuisweg 25, 2033, AP, Haarlem, The Netherlands
| | - Allard J van der Beek
- Department of Public and Occupational Health and Amsterdam Public Health research institute, VU University Medical Center, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081, BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hidde P van der Ploeg
- Department of Public and Occupational Health and Amsterdam Public Health research institute, VU University Medical Center, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081, BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Hamilton K, Kaczynski AT, Fair ML, Lévesque L. Examining the Relationship between Park Neighborhoods, Features, Cleanliness, and Condition with Observed Weekday Park Usage and Physical Activity: A Case Study. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 2017:7582402. [PMID: 29333172 PMCID: PMC5733243 DOI: 10.1155/2017/7582402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Little research has comprehensively explored how park features, quality indicators, and neighborhood environments are associated with observed park usage and physical activity (PA). This case study examined whether weekday park usage and PA differ by neighborhood type, across numerous categories of park features, and according to park feature condition and cleanliness. Methods Direct observation was used to capture the number of users and PA levels within 143 park features in 6 parks (3 urban, 3 suburban) over the course of six weeks. Audits of park environments assessed the type, condition, and cleanliness of all features and amenities. Results Urban parks experienced greater usage, but a higher proportion of sedentary users than suburban parks. Usage and PA levels differed across types of park features, with splash pads, pools, paths, and play structures having the greatest proportion of active users. Usage did not differ by park feature condition and cleanliness, but greater condition and cleanliness were generally associated with higher PA levels. Conclusions Factors such as neighborhood context, types of park features, and condition and cleanliness can impact park usage and PA levels and should be targets for researchers and planners aiming to foster more user-friendly and active neighborhood park environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Hamilton
- School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen's University, 28 Division Street, Kingston, ON, Canada K7L 3N6
| | - Andrew T. Kaczynski
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Prevention Research Center, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Melissa L. Fair
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Lucie Lévesque
- School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen's University, 28 Division Street, Kingston, ON, Canada K7L 3N6
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89
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Impact on Area-Level Physical Activity Following the Implementation of a Fitness Zone in Montevideo, Uruguay. J Phys Act Health 2017; 14:883-887. [PMID: 28556669 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2016-0394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the study was to measure the level of physical activity (PA) of the users of an urban park before and after the installation of 2 fitness zones (FZs) and to assess the impact of that intervention on the users' level of PA. METHODS The System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities method was applied in the urban plaza Liber Seregni in Montevideo (Uruguay): 14 different areas were mapped and then recategorized as fitness (for PAs, including sports), green, and paved zones. Observations were made in the spring (Sep-Oct) of 2011 and 2014, before and after placing 2 FZs. Participation was analyzed by gender, year, mapped areas, and zones, and significant differences were assessed using the χ2 test. RESULTS In total, 7342 individuals (4091 men and 3251 women) were observed. A greater number of people with intense PA could be seen in the FZ, with significant differences between 2011 (45%) and 2014 (70%; P < .05). CONCLUSION This is the first longitudinal study on the impact of an intervention to increase the level of PA in public spaces in Uruguay. Higher intensity levels of PA and fewer sedentary people were observed after the installation of the FZ.
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90
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The Spatiotemporal Trend of City Parks in Mainland China between 1981 and 2014: Implications for the Promotion of Leisure Time Physical Activity and Planning. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14101150. [PMID: 28961182 PMCID: PMC5664651 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14101150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
City parks, important environments built for physical activity, play critical roles in preventing chronic diseases and promoting public health. We used five commonly used park indicators to investigate the spatiotemporal trend of city parks in mainland China between 1981 and 2014 at three scales: national, provincial and city class. City parks in China increased significantly with a turning point occurring around the year 2000. Up until the end of 2014, there were 13,074 city parks totaling 367,962 ha with 0.29 parks per 10,000 residents, 8.26 m2 of park per capita and 2.00% of parkland as a percentage of urban area. However, there is still a large gap compared to the established American and Japanese city park systems, and only 5.4% of people aged above 20 access city parks for physical activity. The low number of parks per 10,000 residents brings up the issue of the accessibility to physical activity areas that public parks provide. The concern of spatial disparity, also apparent for all five city park indicators, differed strongly at provincial and city class scales. The southern and eastern coastal provinces of Guangdong, Fujian, Zhejiang and Shandong have abundant city park resources. At the scale of the city classes, mega-city II had the highest of the three ratio indicators and the large city class had the lowest. On one hand, the leading province Guangdong and its mega-cities Shenzhen and Dongguan had park indicators comparable to the United States and Japan. On the other hand, there were still five cities with no city parks and many cities with extremely low park indicators. In China, few cities have realized the importance of city parks for the promotion of leisure time physical activity. It is urgent that state and city park laws or guidelines are passed that can serve as baselines for planning a park system and determining a minimum standard for city parks with free, accessible and safe physical activity areas and sports facilities.
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91
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Salvo D, Banda JA, Sheats JL, Winter SJ, Lopes Dos Santos D, King AC. Impacts of a Temporary Urban Pop-Up Park on Physical Activity and Other Individual- and Community-Level Outcomes. J Urban Health 2017; 94:470-481. [PMID: 28646369 PMCID: PMC5533666 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-017-0167-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Physical inactivity is a known risk factor for obesity and a number of chronic diseases. Modifying the physical features of neighborhoods to provide residents with equitable and convenient access to spaces for physical activity (PA) is a promising strategy for promoting PA. Public urban recreation spaces (e.g., parks) play an important role in promoting PA and are potentially an important neighborhood element for optimizing social capital and liveability in cities. Most studies examining the effects of park availability and use on PA have focused on traditional, permanent parks. The aims of this study were to (1) document patterns of park use and park-based PA at a temporary urban pop-up park implemented in the downtown business district of Los Altos, California during July-August 2013 and May-June 2014, (2) identify factors associated with park-based PA in 2014, and (3) examine the effects of the 2014 pop-up park on additional outcomes of potential benefit for park users and the Los Altos community at large. Park use remained high during most hours of the day in 2013 and 2014. Although the park attracted a multigenerational group of users, children and adolescents were most likely to engage in walking or more vigorous PA at the park. Park presence was significantly associated with potentially beneficial changes in time-allocation patterns among users, including a reduction in screen-time and an increase in overall park-time and time spent outdoors. Park implementation resulted in notable use among people who would otherwise not be spending time at a park (85% of surveyed users would not be spending time at any other park if the pop-up park was not there-2014 data analysis). Our results (significantly higher odds of spending time in downtown Los Altos due to park presence) suggest that urban pop-up parks may also have broader community benefits, such as attracting people to visit downtown business districts. Pending larger, confirmatory studies, our results suggest that temporary urban pop-up parks may contribute to solving the limited access to public physical activity recreation spaces many urban residents face.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Salvo
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), School of Public Health, Austin Campus, 1616 Guadalupe St, Suite 6.300, Austin, TX, 78701, USA.
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, National Institute of Public Health of Mexico, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Jorge A Banda
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jylana L Sheats
- Department of Global Community Health & Behavioral Sciences, Tulane University School of Public Health & Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Sandra J Winter
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Daniela Lopes Dos Santos
- Department of Methods and Sports Techniques, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Abby C King
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Health Research and Policy, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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The Recreovía of Bogotá, a Community-Based Physical Activity Program to Promote Physical Activity among Women: Baseline Results of the Natural Experiment Al Ritmo de las Comunidades. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14060633. [PMID: 28608844 PMCID: PMC5486319 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14060633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 05/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Community-based physical activity (PA) programs in Latin America have been recognized because of the use of available environmental resources to offer PA classes. Yet, the evaluation of programs focused on PA classes involving dancing in public spaces is limited. The aim of this study was to assess the physical activity levels, park use, and the contextual characteristics of public parks with and without the Recreovía in Bogotá in Colombia. Al Ritmo de las Comunidades is a natural experiment conducted in nine parks (3 parks implementing new Recreovías, 3 control parks and 3 parks with existing Recreovías) during 2013. We used the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities to evaluate park use (gender, age, and physical activity level) and target areas. A total of 4925 people were observed during 702 observation visits to parks. The percentage of women was higher in parks with Recreovía, compared to parks without Recreovía (53% vs. 40% vs. 33%; p < 0.001). Women using parks with Recreovía compared to women in parks without Recreovía were less likely to be sedentary (25% vs. 39%; p < 0.0001) and more likely to engage in moderate-to-vigorous activity (75% vs. 61%; p < 0.0001). Among men, the activity pattern was the opposite. The Recreovía is a promising strategy to promote park use and PA, especially among women who are less likely to meet PA recommendations during their leisure time. The provision of a cost-free community program may be an effective approach and a good investment for health.
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93
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Cohen DA, Han B, Derose KP, Williamson S, Marsh T, Raaen L, McKenzie TL. Promoting physical activity in high-poverty neighborhood parks: A cluster randomized controlled trial. Soc Sci Med 2017. [PMID: 28645058 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2017.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although physical activity can help mitigate or prevent multiple chronic diseases, most people in the U.S., especially high-poverty minority groups, engage in insufficient levels of physical activity. To test ways to promote more physical activity in high-poverty area public parks we conducted a randomized controlled intervention trial. After completing baseline measures of park-based physical activity using systematic direct observation three times/day each month for six months and assessing preferences for park programming among 1445 residents living within 1 mile of study parks, we randomized 48 parks in high poverty neighborhoods in the City of Los Angeles, California during 2013-2014 to four study arms: 1) free physical activity classes over a 6-month period, 2) a frequent user program where participants could win prizes based upon the number of visits they made to the park, 3) both the programs, and 4) neither one (control condition). We re-measured park use in 2014-2015 using the same methods during the six months the intervention programs were in operation. A total of 2047 free park classes were offered attracting 16,718 participants. The frequent user programs enrolled 1452 individuals and prizes were awarded to 830. Residents in the two study arms with free classes were more likely to report being aware of and participating in park-based physical activity programs; however, overall observed park-based physical activity increased similarly across all study arms. The process evaluation uncovered several barriers to program implementation, including inconsistent scheduling of classes, partly due to safety concerns among instructors. Multiple social factors interfere with leisure time physical activity among low-income populations, suggesting modest interventions may be insufficient to overcome these issues. Although new park programs can attract users, new programs alone may be insufficient to increase overall park use in low-income neighborhoods at times when the programs are not taking place.
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94
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Dobbinson SJ, Veitch J, Salmon J, Wakefield M, Staiger PK, MacInnis RJ, Simmons J. Study protocol for a natural experiment in a lower socioeconomic area to examine the health-related effects of refurbishment to parks including built-shade (ShadePlus). BMJ Open 2017; 7:e013493. [PMID: 28399511 PMCID: PMC5337679 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-013493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Parks in disadvantaged suburbs often have low quality and few amenities, which is likely to result in them being underutilised for recreation and physical activity. Refurbishment of parks, including shade, walking paths and other amenities, may have broad health-related benefits. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The study design, methods and planned analyses for a natural experiment examining the effects of refurbishments including built-shade added to parks in disadvantaged outer suburbs of Melbourne are described. Three intervention parks and three comparison parks matched for equivalence of park and neighbourhood characteristics were selected. Using mixed methods, the outcomes will be assessed during three consecutive spring-summer periods (T1: 2013-2014; T2: 2014-2015: T3: 2015-2016). Primary outcomes included: observed park use, physical activity and shade use. Self-reported social connectedness, community engagement and psychological well-being were assessed as secondary outcomes. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study was approved by Cancer Council Victoria's Human Research Ethics Committee. Studies such as ShadePlus can improve understanding of the broader effects of park refurbishments (including physical activity levels and sun protection behaviours, as well as social connectedness and psychological well-being). The study findings will be disseminated through established urban planning and parks and recreation networks, peer review publications and conference presentations.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Dobbinson
- Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - J Veitch
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences,Geelong, Australia
| | - J Salmon
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences,Geelong, Australia
| | - M Wakefield
- Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - P K Staiger
- Deakin University, School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - R J MacInnis
- Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- University of Melbourne, Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - J Simmons
- Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Cohen DA, Han B, Evenson KR, Nagel C, McKenzie TL, Marsh T, Williamson S, Harnik P. The Prevalence and Use of Walking Loops in Neighborhood Parks: A National Study. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2017; 125:170-174. [PMID: 27517530 PMCID: PMC5289910 DOI: 10.1289/ehp293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Revised: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies indicate that the design of streets and sidewalks can influence physical activity among residents. Park features also influence park use and park-based physical activity. Although individuals can walk on streets and sidewalks, walking loops in parks offer a setting to walk in nature and to avoid interruptions from traffic. OBJECTIVES Here we describe the use of walking loops in parks and compare the number of park users and their physical activity in urban neighborhood parks with and without walking loops. METHODS We analyzed data from the National Study of Neighborhood Parks in which a representative sample of neighborhood parks (n = 174) from 25 U.S. cities with > 100,000 population were observed systematically to document facilities and park users by age group and sex. We compared the number of people and their physical activity in parks with and without walking loops, controlling for multiple factors, including park size, facilities, and population density. RESULTS Overall, compared with parks without walking loops, on average during an hourly observation, parks with walking loops had 80% more users (95% CI: 42, 139%), and levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were 90% higher (95% CI: 49, 145%). The additional park use and park-based physical activity occurred not only on the walking loops but throughout the park. CONCLUSIONS Walking loops may be a promising means of increasing population level physical activity. Further studies are needed to confirm a causal relationship. Citation: Cohen DA, Han B, Evenson KR, Nagel C, McKenzie TL, Marsh T, Williamson S, Harnik P. 2017. The prevalence and use of walking loops in neighborhood parks: a national study. Environ Health Perspect 125:170-174; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/EHP293.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bing Han
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, USA
| | - Kelly R. Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Thomas L. McKenzie
- School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Terry Marsh
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California, USA
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96
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Van Hecke L, Van Cauwenberg J, Clarys P, Van Dyck D, Veitch J, Deforche B. Active Use of Parks in Flanders (Belgium): An Exploratory Observational Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 14:E35. [PMID: 28042849 PMCID: PMC5295286 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Parks have the potential to increase physical activity at the community level by providing opportunities to be active. In order to inform interventions to promote physical activity in parks, insight is needed concerning park user characteristics, the activity level of park users, the types of activities performed and associations between park areas and temporal variables with observed physical activity levels. Park user characteristics (sex, age, ethnicity and activity level) were recorded within pre-defined park areas in two parks in Ghent (Belgium) using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). Most park users were male, adult, and engaged in vigorous-intensity physical activity (48%). Most popular activities were biking (38%), sitting (23%) and walking (15%); accordingly, trails were used most and had the highest levels of physical activity compared to other park areas. Parks were used least frequently in the morning, during the weekend and by seniors. Therefore, active park use during morning periods, on weekend days and by seniors should be promoted and urban planners should consider that different park areas can possibly elicit varying activity levels among park users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linde Van Hecke
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
- Physical Activity, Nutrition and Health Research Unit, Department of Movement and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Jelle Van Cauwenberg
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
- Department of Movement and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Peter Clarys
- Physical Activity, Nutrition and Health Research Unit, Department of Movement and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Delfien Van Dyck
- Department of Movement and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
- Fund for Scientific Research Flanders (FWO), 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Jenny Veitch
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia.
| | - Benedicte Deforche
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
- Physical Activity, Nutrition and Health Research Unit, Department of Movement and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium.
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Hillier A, Han B, Eisenman TS, Evenson KR, McKenzie TL, Cohen DA. Using systematic observations to understand conditions that promote inter-racial experiences in neighbourhood parks. URBAN PLANNING 2016; 1:51-64. [PMID: 29085765 PMCID: PMC5659617 DOI: 10.17645/up.v1i4.756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
We analysed observations from 31 neighbourhood parks, with each park mapped into smaller target areas for study, across five US cities generated using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in the Community (SOPARC). In areas where at least two people were observed, less than one-third (31.6%) were populated with at least one white and one non-white person. Park areas that were supervised, had one or more people engaged in vigorous activity, had at least one male and one female present, and had one or more teens present were significantly more likely to involve interracial groups (p<0.01 for each association). Observations in parks located in interracial neighbourhoods were also more likely to involve interracial groups (p<0.05). Neighbourhood poverty rate had a significant and negative relationship with the presence of interracial groups, particularly in neighbourhoods that are predominantly non-white. Additional research is needed to confirm the impact of these interactions. Urban planning and public health practitioners should consider the health benefits of interracial contact in the design and programming of neighbourhood parks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Hillier
- Department of City & Regional Planning, School of Design, University of Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Bing Han
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, USA
| | - Theodore S Eisenman
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Regional Planning, University of Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kelly R Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Thomas L McKenzie
- Institute for Behavioral and Community Health, School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University, USA
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McKenzie TL. Context Matters: Systematic Observation of Place-Based Physical Activity. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2016; 87:334-341. [PMID: 27749158 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2016.1234302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Physical activity is place-based, and being able to assess the number of people and their characteristics in specific locations is important both for public health surveillance and for practitioners in their design of physical activity spaces and programs. Although physical activity measurement has improved recently, many investigators avoid or are at a loss regarding the assessment of physical activity in explicit locations, especially in open environments where many people come and go in a seemingly indiscriminate fashion. Direct, systematic observation exceeds other methods in simultaneously assessing physical activity and the contexts in which it occurs. This commentary summarizes the development and use of 2 validated observation tools: the System for Observing Play and Leisure in Youth (SOPLAY) and System for Observing Play and Active Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). Their use is well supported by both behavior-analytic principles and social-ecological theory, and their methods have utility for both researchers and practitioners.
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99
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Chow BC, McKenzie TL, Sit CHP. Public Parks in Hong Kong: Characteristics of Physical Activity Areas and Their Users. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:E639. [PMID: 27367709 PMCID: PMC4962180 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13070639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Public parks, salient locations for engaging populations in health promoting physical activity, are especially important in high-density cities. We used the System for Observing Physical Activity in Communities (SOPARC) to conduct the first-ever surveillance study of nine public parks in Hong Kong (288 observation sessions during 36 weekdays and 36 weekend days) and observed 28,585 visitors in 262 diverse areas/facilities. Parks were widely used throughout the day on weekdays and weekend days and across summer and autumn; visitor rates were among the highest seen in 24 SOPARC studies. In contrast to other studies where teens and children dominated park use, most visitors (71%) were adults and seniors. More males (61%) than females used the parks, and they dominated areas designed for sports. Over 60% of visitors were observed engaging in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, a rate higher than other SOPARC studies. Facilities with user fees were less accessible than non-fee areas, but they provided relatively more supervised and organized activities. Assessing parks by age, gender, and physical activity can provide useful information relative to population health. This study not only provides information useful to local administrators for planning and programming park facilities relative to physical activity, but it also provides a baseline for comparison by other high-density cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bik C Chow
- Department of Physical Education, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Thomas L McKenzie
- School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University, 5127 Walsh Way, San Diego, CA 92115, USA.
| | - Cindy H P Sit
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China.
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Evenson KR, Shay E, Williamson S, Cohen DA. Use of Dog Parks and the Contribution to Physical Activity for Their Owners. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2016; 87:165-173. [PMID: 26932539 PMCID: PMC4951202 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2016.1143909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study described the use of dog parks in several diverse locations and explored the contribution dog parks made to physical activity of the dog owners. METHOD The Systematic Observation of Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) tool was used to count the number and characteristics of people using parks. Observations were conducted 4 times per day, 4 days per week during for 1 week in 6 urban/suburban parks during different seasons. Collection sites included 3 dog parks in Chapel Hill/Durham, NC; 2 dog parks in Los Angeles, CA; and 1 dog park in Philadelphia, PA. Interviews at the NC and PA parks were conducted among 604 adults. RESULTS We counted 2,124 people (11.9%) in the dog park area compared with 15,672 people in the remaining park areas. Based on observations, dog park visitors were more likely to be female and White or Other race/ethnicity compared with Hispanics, and were less likely to be children or engaged in walking or vigorous activity. Park interviews revealed that compared with other park activities, reporting walking/watching a dog at the park was more common among those who visited the park more frequently ( ≥ 1 time per week), stayed at the park for a shorter time ( ≤ 1 hr), or visited the park alone. CONCLUSION Although dog parks may be an important destination for dog owners and contribute to physical activity, the contribution of dog parks to participants' moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was limited.
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