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A community-based approach to promoting walking in rural areas
Ross C Brownson1, Elizabeth A Baker, Rutha L Boyd
1Department of Community Health and Prevention Research Center, School of Public Health, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA. brownson@slu.edu
American Journal of Preventive Medicine
|June 24, 2004
Summary
Ecologic models for physical activity promotion showed increased trail use but no significant community-wide walking changes in rural areas. Further research is needed to guide future interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Community Interventions
- Physical Activity Promotion
Background:
- Ecologic models are frequently suggested for increasing physical activity.
- However, empirical data on their effectiveness remains limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of ecologic models on walking behavior in rural communities.
- To assess changes in physical activity rates following community-based interventions.
Main Methods:
- A quasi-experimental design was employed in rural intervention and comparison communities.
- Interventions included tailored newsletters, social support activities, and community events.
- Walking behavior was measured by trail use, weekly walking minutes, and exercise minutes.
Main Results:
- Trail use increased among baseline users, with 32.1% reporting higher physical activity.
- Positive net changes in walking rates were observed in individuals with lower education and income levels.
- No statistically significant community-wide intervention effect on walking rates was detected.
Conclusions:
- While trail usage improved, ecologic models did not yield significant community-wide increases in walking in rural settings.
- Findings offer insights for refining future physical activity promotion strategies in similar populations.