학술논문

Participants Characteristics of a Park-Based Physical Activity Intervention in an Urban Context—A Cross-Sectional Study in Bologna, Italy
Document Type
article
Source
Healthcare, Vol 11, Iss 16, p 2287 (2023)
Subject
physical activity
urban health
community health promotion
exercise
community-based intervention
Medicine
Language
English
ISSN
11162287
2227-9032
Abstract
Physical inactivity, a leading risk factor for chronic diseases and premature death, is prevalent worldwide. This study focuses on participant profiles and factors influencing continued participation and physical activity (PA) levels in the “Moving Parks” PA intervention in Bologna, Italy. This intervention offers free group activities in city parks during the summer. A questionnaire was administered to participants in 2022, gathering data on socio-demographic information, chronic diseases, participation in previous iterations, and PA levels. Out of 596 respondents, 85% were women, and the average age was 50. About 56% held a university degree, and 73% exercised regularly in the winter. Continuous participation was linked to older age, higher education, and chronic conditions. Prior participation predicted higher winter PA levels. Notably, the majority of participants were educated, physically active women. While the project continually engages individuals with higher education and chronic conditions, it needs further tailoring to reach less represented populations.