Prevalence of Physical Activity Policies and Environmental Strategies in Communities and Worksites

Abstract

Objective: This study describes results of community and worksite assessments of physical activity policies and environmental strategies in 26 Iowa counties. Methods: Community coalition members completed the Community Health Assessment and Group Evaluation tool. The study explored findings using descriptive statistics and examined rural-urban differences in two of the five assessed sectors: community and worksites. Results: Lower community scores (ie, needing improvement) were found for complete streets, bicycle use, and street calming. Higher scores (ie, identified strengths) were found for land use plans, maintain parks, and sidewalks Americans with Disabilities Act compliant. Worksites scored lower on promote stairwells, encourage non-motorized commuting, and implement activity breaks but higher on subsidize gym membership and provide area for physical activity. No rural-urban differences were found. Conclusions: Results identify opportunities to enhance community and worksite policies and environmental strategies to increase physical activity.