Citation

Merom D, Bauman AE, Vita P, Close G. Prev. Med. 2003; 36(2): 235-242.

Affiliation

Epidemiology Unit, NSW Centre for Physical Activity and Health, University of New South Wales, Liverpool NSW 2170, Australia. dafna.merom@swsahs.nsw.gov.au

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12590999

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Few studies have evaluated environmental changes to promote physical activity. The impact of a local promotional campaign around a newly constructed Rail Trail in western Sydney, Australia, was assessed. METHODS: Pre and post-campaign telephone surveys were used. Adults 18-55 years of age were randomly sampled from an "inner" area, residents within < or =1.5 km of the Trail, and an "outer" area, bike-owners only, 1.5-5 km from the Trail. Objective concurrent monitoring of daily bike counts was carried out. RESULTS: A cohort of 450 completed both interviews. A significant increase (+2.9%, McNemar P < 0.05) in unprompted Trail awareness was detected but post-campaign awareness was low (34%). Inner cyclists, males, and those recalling any baseline bike promotion messages were more likely to be aware of the Trail. Trail usage was higher among bike-owners than pedestrians (8.9 vs 3.3%, P = 0.014) and was moderated by proximity to the Trail. Inner cyclists increased mean cycling time by 0.19 h (SD = 1.5) while outer cyclists decreased cycling time (-0.24 h, SD = 1.6). Mean daily bike counts in the monitored areas increased significantly after the Trail launch (OR = 1.35, P = 0.0001, and OR = 1.23, P = 0.0004). CONCLUSIONS: The campaign reached and influenced cyclists in the inner area. For further increase in Trail usage promotional and educational programs focusing on walking for inner residents are needed.

Language: en