Density and Proximity:
A Study of Physical activity in four neighborhoods in Valencia, Spain.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46661/socioldeporte.12246Keywords:
Physical activity, Population strategy, sedentarism, built environment, health, sport centerAbstract
This study examines the relationship between the density and proximity of sport centers and physical exercise participation in four neighbourhoods of Valencia, Spain, as well as residents’ perceptions of potential urban improvements. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1,446 inhabitants, employing the long form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-LF) to quantify the frequency and duration of vigorous, moderate and light physical exercise, together with a qualitative analysis of open-ended suggestions regarding urban interventions. The results reveal very low levels of physical exercise across all neighbourhoods, especially in those with fewer sport centers. Significant differences were observed for vigorous and light physical exercise, but not for moderate-intensity exercise. The qualitative analysis identified ten priority areas for improvement, notably the expansion of green spaces, enhancement of pedestrian pathways and the creation of both indoor and outdoor sport centers. Given the urgent need to address physical inactivity among the population, the design of ‘sports parks’ is proposed as an integrative strategy for public health, urban planning and social cohesion.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Alonso Sánchez Rodríguez, Elena Sanz Cariñena, Pablo Vidal González
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