Gender disparities in the use of active transportation to school among K-8 students in a diverse southwestern metropolitan area

Background: Active transportation to school (ATS) shows promise for increasing activity levels in children, but prevalence and correlates vary widely in different populations. This study attempted to determine the prevalence and correlates of ATS use in children enrolled in grades K-8 in Clark County, NV. 

Methods: This study used secondary data from the National Center for Safe Routes to School’s Parent Survey collected in 17 school communities by Clark County School District in 2013 (n=2,054). Variables representing demographic characteristics, socio-economic status, distance from school, and barriers to the use of ATS were assessed for correlations and normality. Logistic regression for survey data was used to develop predictive models for two measures of ATS.

Results: Although rates of walking to school were similar for children of both genders, female students were less likely to cycle to school (p<.05), and parents of female children were more likely to report that they would not be comfortable allowing their children to travel to school independently at any age (p<.05).

Conclusion: Gender-based differences in the use of bicycles and the social acceptance of active transportation may begin at an early age. These differences may contribute to lower rates of physical activity among female children and adults. Policies designed to encourage ATS to increase childhood physical activity should consider these barriers.