Determining Factors in the Use of Urban Parks That Influence the Practice of Physical Activity in Children: A Systematic Review.

Rosario Padial-Ruz,Mª Esther Puga-González,Álvaro Céspedes-Jiménez,David Cabello-Manrique

doi:10.3390/ijerph18073648

Rosario Padial-Ruz, Mª Esther Puga-González + Show 2 more

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https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18073648

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Abstract

The design and/or remodelling of urban parks is a good health strategy to alleviate the lack of physical activity (PA) in children and, consequently, the different health problems derived from this. The main objective of the present study was to obtain a systematic review of the design features and characteristics that influence users’ visits to urban parks and the PA engagement in them. A literature search was carried out in the Web of Science (WOS) and Scopus databases during the months of June and July 2020. After considering and applying inclusion criteria, the final review sample was formed of 31 scientific papers published between 2010–2020. The results obtained in the review lead us to conclude that the needs of the population (children and family members who care for them) and socio-economic context of the area in which they are built must be considered when constructing and/or remodelling parks. Involving community members in playground renovations can have a positive effect on park use and PA engagement in children.

Highlights

The high rates of inactivity and sedentariness amongst children worldwide is a major problem that needs to be addressed immediately [1]
To identify the opinions of children from different social classes regarding the characteristics that influence their visits to the park, physical activity (PA) engagement in the park and social interaction
Children are attracted to parks that facilitate play, have elements of risk/adventure and are large enough to allow for a variety of physical and social activities

Summary

Introduction

The high rates of inactivity and sedentariness amongst children worldwide is a major problem that needs to be addressed immediately [1]. Recommendations for physical activity (PA) in young people, aged 5–17 years, state at least 60 min per day of moderate to vigorous intensity activity. This activity should be mostly aerobic and should incorporate vigorous activities that strengthen muscles and bones at least three times per week. Over the past few years, we have seen an increase in the proportion of the population that does not comply with these recommendations. Inactivity at early ages can lead to high obesity rates. Excess body fat in the early stages of life can have serious health consequences at later stages, since the risk of contracting diseases derived from inactivity, such as diabetes, hypertension and coronary diseases, among others, is high and dangerous [5]. According to Omorou et al [6], lack of PA may increase the likelihood of being obese in adulthood

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