Park Access Linked to Physical Activity, But Benefits Skewed Toward Higher-Income, White Communities

A two-year study reveals that while proximity to parks boosts physical activity, the benefits are unevenly distributed across racial and economic lines.

The research analyzed data from more than 96% of U.S. counties, with over 55% of each county's population having adequate access to parks or recreational facilities.

However, the study found that the association between leisure-time physical activity and park access was stronger in counties with higher proportions of non-Hispanic white residents. The median household income in the 2019 dataset was $57,500, and 75% of the population in each county was non-Hispanic white.

Mikihiro Sato said:

"We found that the association between the prevalence of leisure-time physical activity and access to parks and recreational facilities was stronger in counties that had greater proportions of non-Hispanic white residents."

In 2019, 69% of adults engaged in physical activity within the prior 30 days, increasing to 74% in 2020. Toni Liechty emphasized the importance of inclusive design:

"Making facilities more welcoming and accessible is also essential."

Public health recommendations include subsidized fee structures, family-oriented activities, and improved neighborhood walkability to increase accessibility.

The study notes that findings are associative and do not establish causation, with experts cautioning that more research is needed before changing clinical practice.

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