Qualidade Urbana Ambiental e Prática de Atividades Físicas: Um Estudo Sobre o Parque do Povo de Presidente Prudente SP

Abstract

The urban quality of an environment is closely linked to its ecosystem and the quality of life that it provides. Its relationship with urban green space has proved solid, and , among many benefits, these places promote opportunities for physical activity (PA). In Presidente Prudente - SP, the Parque do Povo is the main public green space for recreation and sports in the city, distinguished by its active use, which can be seen every day. This study aims to investigate the relationship between urban environmental quality and PA practice, and discuss how the environment can act in health promotion strategies. The level of physical activity and characteristics of use/ park users were collected through the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC), instrument that is based on systematic observations (scans) of preselected target areas. It was also used a questionnaire applied to 200 park users 18+, on assorted days and times. Data collection was done during the first half of 2015, and 19,105 individuals were observed. The park proved to be a significant local for PA practice, since sedentary activities represented only 27% of the total observed. The adult population represented 59% of the sample, and males 65%. Few children were seen in the park on weekdays and few elderly people were seen on weekends. Men engaged in more vigorous activities than women, and occupied the block with more sports facilities in disproportionately greater numbers. Nighttime was the most attended in total (53%), and the blocks with more equipment and facilities stood out for its use. Most park users lives in its vicinity and has higher level. The reasons related to health were the most featured for PA practice. Among the respondents, 95% said that the park is a place that motivates them to perform AF, and the factor "green environment" was the most valued for the park selection. The study showed a positive relationship between environmental quality brought by the park and the PA practice. These results may be related to the implementation process of the place and its consequent social and economic rise, which led to the predominance of middle / upper class users, who tend to be more aware and available for the pursuit of health through physical activity. The amount of vegetation proved to be a crucial factor and closely related to the psychological motivation of users. The results clarify that certain times of the day and week, as well as other user preferences should be considered by managers and professionals to increase the effectiveness of programs aimed at promoting health. These incentive programs could enhance the use of these spaces, increase the AF level held in these locations, and also work with its diverse and democratic use.