Examining park features that encourage physical activity and social interaction among adults.

Abstract

Urban parks are a critical setting that can support good health by providing opportunities for physical activity and social interaction. Therefore, it is necessary to better understand which park features are most important for encouraging active park use and social interaction. This study examined the perceived importance of park features for encouraging park visitation, park-based physical activity, and social interaction among adults in Australia. Participants [n = 232, 42.2 years (SD = 13.4), 53% female] rated images of 43 different park features. For each feature, mean scores (SD) were calculated for the overall sample and by gender and frequent/infrequent park visitors for each park-use behaviour (visit, active, social). 'Good maintenance and cleanliness' and 'trees' were the two highest-rated features for encouraging adults to visit a park and be active and social. A 'peaceful and relaxed setting' was ranked third for visitation and 'sense of safety from strangers' was ranked third for both physical activity and social interaction. Significant differences in rating scores were observed between frequent and infrequent park visitors for all three outcomes. The findings will assist those involved in park planning and design to create parks that are tailored to the specific needs of this important user group. This is critical for enhanced physical, social, and mental health at the population level.