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Oswald KD, Murdaugh DL, King VL, Boggiano MM. Motivation for palatable food despite consequences in an animal model of binge eating. Int J Eat Disord. 2011; 44(3): 203-211.

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Article

An Examination of the Influences on Active Commuting among a Sample of Parents

1Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA


Journal of Physical Activity Research. 2017, Vol. 2 No. 2, 124-129
DOI: 10.12691/jpar-2-2-10
Copyright © 2017 Science and Education Publishing

Cite this paper:
Shannon Larson, Ronald E. Green, Dangaia Sims, Melissa Bopp, Joanna Colgan. An Examination of the Influences on Active Commuting among a Sample of Parents. Journal of Physical Activity Research. 2017; 2(2):124-129. doi: 10.12691/jpar-2-2-10.

Correspondence to: Melissa  Bopp, Department of Kinesiology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA. Email: mjb73@psu.edu

Abstract

Active commuting (AC; walking and biking to work) is associated with significant health benefits. AC rates remain low in the United States, particularly among parents; accordingly, it is important to understand factors associated with AC for potential intervention development. The purpose of this study was to examine the multi-level influences of AC participation in parents who are currently regular active commuters. At the individual level, the benefits of exercise, enjoyment of AC, and the use of child-friendly bicycle accessories facilitated AC; however, time and effort were also shown to impede AC. Positive interpersonal influences included spousal support and scheduling, an AC supportive work environment, and interest from the children, whereas negative influences included childcare and time for travel to school. Environmental factors (i.e., weather, terrain, distance, and infrastructure) appeared to both support and inhibit AC. These findings from successful active commuters may be used to inform future AC interventions.

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