Active Living Research News
ALR Conference
Save the date!
We are excited to announce the 2017 Active Living Research Annual Conference will be held February 26 – March 1, 2017 in Clearwater Beach, Florida. The theme for ALR2017 is Active Living Across the Life Span. We anticipate releasing the Call for Abstracts in mid-July. More information will be posted on the ALR website as details are confirmed. Mark your calendars, spread the word, and start planning for another energizing ALR conference!
ALR Resources
Active Transportation Infographic
Our Run Errands on Foot or Bike infographic features evidence on the health benefits and safety of active travel, and examines policies and programs that can help increase active travel. The infographic can be downloaded for free for print or electronic dissemination. Findings presented in this infographic come from a related ALR research review.
Our Most Popular Infographics Translated into Spanish
A number of ALR infographics have now been translated into Spanish. These graphics feature evidence on a range of topics, including safe routes to school, transportation systems, parks and recreation, and youth sedentary time. Both English and Spanish versions of these infographic are available for free download.
Designing Global Cities for Active Living
A new IPEN and ALR study published in The Lancet found that densely populated and walkable neighborhoods with interconnected streets to shops, services, restaurants, public transit and parks have the potential to contribute nearly 90 minutes physical activity a week – approximately 60 percent of the 150 minutes recommended. The study was conducted in 14 cities in 10 countries around the world. A research brief summarizes the main results.
Cost Analysis for Improving Park Facilities
What are the financial costs of adding or maintaining new park facilities that could increase use and activity? What are the life span costs relative to increased use and additional physical activity? A new ALR-funded report, Cost Analysis for Improving Park Facilities to Promote Park-based Physical Activity, by Myron Floyd and colleagues aims to answer such questions. The report can be used to provide objective information to park officials, policymakers, and citizens to help make more informed decisions about the construction of park facilities to promote active lifestyles.
Announcements and Other Resources
States, Cities, and Counties Measure Declines in their Childhood Obesity Rates
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has updated its Signs of Progress map, which now includes more than 30 locations nationwide where childhood obesity rates are going down. The map includes a collection of stories and data from places that have made broad, far-reaching changes to help support healthy eating and regular physical activity.
Tool for Park Planners, Professionals and Health Practitioners
A new workbook from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Park Service is a quick guide for incorporating public health considerations in the development and improvement of a park or trail. This tool can help start discussions with key stakeholders about the health benefits of parks and trails and prepare for a health impact assessment.
Children’s Book Gets Kids Moving
Two leading physical activity researchers and long-time ALR colleagues, Monica Lounsbery and Thom McKenzie, have written a new children’s book aimed at reinforcing children’s literacy and introducing physical activity. I Can Move! is an interactive picture book where parents and children read and move together to creatively illustrate the book in their own way.
Conferences and Webinars
New Partners for Smart Growth Conference
The Call for Session Proposals for the 16th Annual New Partners for Smart Growth Conference has been extended until July 5th. This is your chance to share your work with over 1200 smart growth leaders from across the country. The conference will be held in St. Louis, Missouri on February 2-4, 2017.
Advancing Dissemination and Implementation Research on Walking and Walkability
America Walks, PAPRN+, and ALR will co-host two webinars focused on advancing dissemination and implementation research on walking and walkability. Please mark your calendars and stay tuned for registration information on the America Walks website.
August 3rd, 11am – 12:30 pm PT
Effective Walking and Walkability Interventions
August 18th, 10 – 11 am PT
Research Translation: Lessons from Dissemination and Implementation Research for Interventions Promoting Walking and Walkability
