Parent Perceptions of a Child Physical Activity Initiative in a Rural Community

Abstract

This study assessed the extent to which a community-based intervention developed for children impacted parent perceptions and behaviors toward physical activity in a rural community. Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted with parents of children who participated in physical activity programs. Analysis revealed an increased community awareness surrounding physical activity following program implementation. Parents and children encouraged each other to be physically active. Ecological barriers and enabling factors to adult physical activity were identified. These findings indicate a bidirectional influence between parent and child physical activity and the need for communityfacilities where families can be active together.