Assessing green space as a correlate of physical activity among twins

The health benefits of regular physical activity are well established. However, the contribution of natural and “built” environmental factors, including access to green space, to physical activity levels remains uncertain. In this study we use walking, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), public transit use, and neighborhood green space data from twin pairs in Washington State to elucidate this relationship. Twin pairs were used in this analysis to control for the genetic contribution to physical activity participation and self-selection into environments with more (or less) green space. We hypothesized that an increased density of green space around a subject’s home would be associated with an increase in overall physical activity, controlling for demographic factors and public transit use.

Materials Available

• Abstract

---

Project Type(s): Master's Thesis

Author(s): Isabel Kanholm

Program(s): Master of Public Health

Year: 2013

Adviser(s):

• Glen E. Duncan