Abstract
ObjectivesTo assess the physical characteristics of public spaces designed for sport/physical activity/leisure in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and their relationship to the socioeconomic indicators. MethodsPublic spaces (n=38) spread across the city were evaluated between December 2011 and January 2012 using the Physical Activity Resource Assessment (PARA) instrument. Based on PARA results, a Quality Indicator (QI) was prepared and the sample was grouped into “High QI” and “Low QI” using a k-means clustering algorithm. The association between QI and the local Social Development Index (SDI) was tested using a Chi-square test. ResultsThe average QI was 13.6±4.91 and the median was equal to 13 points. The High QI group, composed of sites with a QI above median, reached 17.9±2.35 points, while the Low QI group reached 9.3±2.16 points. Pearson's Chi-square tests identified a significant association between QI and SDI when the value of SDI 0.7 was used as a criterion for separation (χ2=17.84, p<0.001). In neighborhoods with lower levels of SDI, public spaces usually had a lower QI. ConclusionsPolicies to encourage physical activity need to focus attention on the built environment also, particularly in socially vulnerable areas.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.