Neighborhood parks and physical activity : exploring associations with perceived park quality and constraints

Abstract

[ACCESS RESTRICTED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI AT REQUEST OF AUTHOR.] Parks are important resources for physical activity (PA). However, few studies on park characteristics' contribution to the physical activity focus on perceptions of park quality, and additional research on constraints to park-based physical activity including non-visitors is needed. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to: a) better understand perceptions of park quality and constraints to participate in park-based PA, b) investigate differences in perceptions of park quality and constraints by demographic and past park use characteristics, and c) examine how these perceptions influence their physical activity and health. Data were collected via questionnaire from 893 randomly-selected households in Kansas City, Missouri. Differences were found in both perceived park quality and constraints by demographics and past park use. In addition, both perceptions of neighborhood park quality and constraints to park based PA were related with PA and BMI. These findings can improve appreciation of how parks facilitate active living and suggest implications for encouraging active use of parks and promoting health.