Activity patterns and perceptions about active transport to school

Am J Health Behav. 2013 Mar;37(2):190-8. doi: 10.5993/AJHB.37.2.6.

Abstract

Objectives: To document physical activity patterns and perceptions about active transport to school.

Methods: Children's activity was measured. Children and parents were surveyed about active transport to school.

Results: Children were most active after (465 ± 20 cpm) and least active before (379 ± 18 cpm) and during school (351 ± 13 cpm). Weight was not related to activity. Boys were more confident than girls, whereas parents felt more confident than children did about active transport.

Conclusions: Active transport programs will likely have a greater impact on before-school activity than after school. Perceptions concerning active transport should be assessed, and parent/child discrepancies rectified prior to program implementation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Actigraphy / instrumentation
  • Bicycling*
  • Child
  • Data Collection
  • District of Columbia
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motor Activity*
  • Parents / psychology
  • Schools*
  • Walking*
  • Young Adult