Opportunities for exercise in public parks across the U.S

Introduction: Public parks are known to be important settings for recreational exercise. While a number of studies have examined variations in access to and quality of parks at the local level, relatively little is known about how characteristics of parks vary nationally. Methods: A total of 1,046 public parks in 154 communities were observed in 2010 as part of a nationwide study. The communities were defined as the enrollment zone of an index school, and public parks were identified through a compilation of secondary data sources and field discovery. The data collection tool captured park accessibility, count and condition of sports features, presence and condition of amenities, and incivilities such as litter and graffiti. Results: Mean number of public parks in the community varied by locale type (Urban: 9.6, Rural: 3.7, p<.0001) and by tertiles of median household income (Lowest third: 5.4, Highest third: 8.7, p=.0039). Preliminary results indicate the most common sports features present were playground areas, basketball courts, and baseball fields. On average, parks had 3 sports features and 5 amenities (e.g., benches, shelters, drinking fountains). Parks in low-income communities were more likely to have litter present (p=.0003). The presentation will summarize differences in park characteristics, including feature conditions, by community demographics as well as potential associations with physical activity levels. Discussion: Results indicate access to quality recreation opportunities in public parks may be more limited in rural and lower income populations, where rates of physical activity tend to be lower and the prevalence of obesity higher.