Citation

Peachey AA, Baller SL. J. Am. Coll. Health 2015; 63(5): 337-342.

Affiliation

a Department of Health Sciences , James Madison University , Harrisonburg , Virginia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07448481.2015.1015027

PMID

25692311

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To identify differences in neighborhood environment and their association with physical activity (PA) levels of on-campus compared to off-campus students. Participants: Participants were 822 undergraduate students at a mid-sized mid-Atlantic university.

METHODS: Students completed the Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale-Abbreviated and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire in October, 2013.

RESULTS: Lower residential density, traffic safety, and crime scores and higher land-use mix diversity, aesthetics, and lack of parking scores were reported among on-campus residents. On-campus residents reported higher levels of active transportation PA, leisure PA, and total PA. Land-mix use diversity, aesthetics and lack of cul-de-sacs were associated with physical activity level.

CONCLUSION: The on-campus and off-campus environments differ in ways that may impact the ability of undergraduate students to be physically active. Strategies to promote continued active transportation and leisure PA are discussed.

Language: en