Community Design for Physical Activity

Physical activity can help people to prevent numerous physical and mental health conditions, yet most Americans do not meet recommended levels of physical activity. Some built environment attributes are associated with higher levels of physical activity. Youths, adults, and older adults living in mixed-use communities with walkable destinations do more total physical activity than do their counterparts living in residential-only neighborhoods. Comprehensive interventions that include environmental changes, education, and other components have increased active transport to schools and overall use of bicycles in cities. Living close to parks, trails, and recreation facilities is related to greater use of facilities and more recreational physical activity. Adding or improving recreation facilities may not be enough to lead to their increased use. Activity programs and marketing may also be needed. Access to recreation facilities, quality and safety of pedestrian facilities, and aesthetics are poorer in areas with mostly low-income and racial or ethnic minority populations.