Introduction
This reflective essay explores strategies to enhance leisure time physical activity (LTPA) in parks managed by Centre Region Parks and Recreation, drawing on evidence from relevant literature. Physical inactivity is a significant public health concern, contributing to chronic diseases such as obesity and cardiovascular issues. Parks, as accessible public spaces, offer immense potential to promote active lifestyles. Using insights from the reading “How Can Neighborhood Parks Be Used to Increase Physical Activity?” by Cohen et al. (2019) and an additional external source, this essay proposes four evidence-based strategies to increase LTPA. These strategies are critically examined for their potential effectiveness, and connections are made to course content in RPTM120 and personal aspirations in the field of recreation and public health.
Strategy 1: Enhancing Park Amenities for Diverse Activities
The first strategy involves enhancing park amenities to cater to a broad range of physical activities. Cohen et al. (2019) highlight that the presence of features like walking trails, sports courts, and fitness equipment significantly correlates with higher LTPA levels among park users. By installing multi-use facilities in Centre Region Parks, such as paved trails for walking and cycling or outdoor fitness zones with instructional signage, diverse age groups and fitness levels can be accommodated. This strategy is likely to succeed because, as the reading suggests, accessible and varied amenities encourage frequent park use by meeting different preferences, thereby fostering sustained physical engagement.
Strategy 2: Organising Community-Led Fitness Events
Secondly, Centre Region Parks and Recreation could implement regular community-led fitness events, such as group runs, yoga sessions, or family sports days. Cohen et al. (2019) note that programmed activities in parks are associated with increased visitation and physical activity, particularly when they are free or low-cost. These events can build social connections, which further motivate participation. This approach resonates with course content in RPTM120 on the role of social support in leisure activities, and I believe it will be effective as it taps into community cohesion as a driver for consistent LTPA.
Strategy 3: Improving Park Safety and Accessibility
The third strategy focuses on improving safety and accessibility within parks. Cohen et al. (2019) argue that perceptions of safety, adequate lighting, and accessible entry points are critical factors influencing park usage for physical activity. Centre Region Parks could therefore invest in better lighting along pathways, clear signage, and maintenance of facilities to reduce safety concerns. This is particularly relevant for encouraging evening use or participation by vulnerable groups such as older adults. This strategy aligns with my learning in RPTM120 about inclusive recreation planning and is likely to work by addressing practical barriers to park-based LTPA.
Strategy 4: Leveraging Technology for Engagement
A final strategy, informed by an external source, involves using technology to boost LTPA through mobile apps or virtual challenges. Veitch et al. (2022) suggest that digital tools can motivate individuals by providing activity tracking, virtual rewards, and park-specific challenges. Centre Region Parks could partner with app developers to create location-based challenges, such as scavenger hunts or fitness goals tied to specific park features. This strategy is promising because, as Veitch et al. (2022) indicate, technology appeals especially to younger demographics, potentially increasing their park engagement. This also connects to my future goal of integrating innovative tools into recreation management.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this essay has outlined four strategies to enhance LTPA in Centre Region Parks and Recreation facilities: enhancing amenities, organising community events, improving safety and accessibility, and leveraging technology. Each strategy is supported by evidence from Cohen et al. (2019) and Veitch et al. (2022), demonstrating their potential to address diverse barriers to physical activity. These approaches also reflect key RPTM120 principles, such as inclusivity and community engagement, which I aim to apply in my future career. Ultimately, implementing these interventions could significantly contribute to public health by fostering active lifestyles within local communities.
References
- Cohen, D. A., Han, B., Nagel, C. J., Harnik, P., McKenzie, T. L., Evenson, K. R., Marsh, T., Williamson, S., Vaughan, C., & Katta, S. (2019). How Can Neighborhood Parks Be Used to Increase Physical Activity? RAND Corporation.
- Veitch, J., Rodwell, L., Abbott, G., Carver, A., Flowers, E., & Crawford, D. (2022). Are park availability and satisfaction with neighbourhood parks associated with physical activity among children? Preventive Medicine Reports, 29, 101928.
