Viability of Parks and Recreation Centers as Sites for Youth Physical Activity Promotion

Abstract

This descriptive study explored the potential for public parks and recreation centers as intervention sites for promoting physical activity among youth. Directors (55% women) of 44 recreation centers in San Diego County completed a survey of their centers' physical activity programming for youths ages 3 to 17 years (response rate = 60%). On an average weekday, 373 (SD = 782) youths participated in physical activity at a center. More boys attended than girls (p <.05). Some centers sponsored after-school programs at elementary (41%) and middle (11%) schools but not at high schools (0%). Primary barriers to providing physical activity programs were inadequate staffing (54%), funding (39%), and facilities (32%). Girls and low-income youth were identified as the most difficult populations to reach. Directors reported considerable interest in collaborating on interventions to improve youth activity programs. Public parks and recreation centers are understudied settings with the potential for substantial involvement in efforts to promote youth physical activity.

Community Agency Survey Formative Research Results From the TAAG Study

“…In addition, community agencies reported current involvement in partnerships with schools and other community organizations. These results are congruent with the supportive findings from other studies (Henderson et al, 2001;Moody et al, 2004; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health & National Recreation & Park Association, 2000).…”

Exploring the Distribution of Park Availability, Features, and Quality Across Kansas City, Missouri by Income and Race/Ethnicity: an Environmental Justice Investigation

“…Parks are encouraging sites for promoting PA because their provision and management can be influenced through public policy (10,53), but all groups do not always have equal access to policy making processes (54). Unlike many other park audit tools, the CPAT was designed with and for nonresearchers as a user-friendly yet reliable instrument that could be incorporated into community evaluation and advocacy efforts (34).…”

Youth Physical Activity Opportunities in Lower and Higher Income Neighborhoods

“…The interviews were based on developed protocols and began with introductions and an explanation of the key informant interview process. 31,33,34 Occasional research team meetings were held to discuss the process of the interviews, identify issues, and troubleshoot any problems that may have arisen. 35 Neighborhood Tours.…”