Physical Activity and Access to Resources for Low-Income Women
Author Information
Author(s): Jilcott Stephanie B, Evenson Kelly R, Laraia Barbara A, Ammerman Alice S
Primary Institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Hypothesis
Perceived proximity to physical activity resources would be more strongly associated with moderate to vigorous physical activity than objectively measured proximity.
Conclusion
The study highlights the need for both individual and environmental strategies to enhance physical activity among underinsured, midlife women.
Supporting Evidence
- Pearson correlation coefficients for perceived and objectively measured proximity ranged from 0.40 to 0.54.
- Perceived distance to gyms was negatively associated with physical activity.
- Participants averaged 112.8 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day.
Takeaway
This study looked at how close women feel to places where they can exercise and how that affects how much they actually exercise. It found that feeling closer to gyms and schools is linked to more exercise.
Methodology
The study used surveys to measure perceived proximity and geographic information systems to measure actual distance to physical activity resources, analyzing data from a randomized trial.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported measures of perceived distance and the lack of validated survey questions.
Limitations
The study was cross-sectional, limiting causal inferences, and had a small, select sample that may not be generalizable.
Participant Demographics
Participants were underinsured women aged 40 to 64 years from three counties in southeastern North Carolina, with an average age of 53 years and average BMI of 31 kg/m2.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.04
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website