A1 Journal article (refereed)
Defining the accessibility of physical activity : Tracing the social dimension (2022)

Virmasalo, I., & Hasanen, E. (2022). Defining the accessibility of physical activity : Tracing the social dimension. Contesti. Città, Territori, Progetti, 2022(2), 59-76. https://doi.org/10.36253/contest-14177

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Virmasalo, Ilkka; Hasanen, Elina

Journal or series: Contesti. Città, Territori, Progetti

ISSN: 2035-5300

eISSN: 2038-6583

Publication year: 2022

Publication date: 31/12/2022

Volume: 2022

Issue number: 2

Pages range: 59-76

Publisher: Firenze university press

Publication country: Italy

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.36253/contest-14177

Publication open access: Openly available

Publication channel open access: Open Access channel

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/85333

Abstract

The promotion of the physical activity (PA) of citizens has traditionally focused on improving spatial accessibility, especially in municipal administrations. However, research evidence indicates that proximity to PA environments is not a sufficient condition for increased PA. This article presents a broader model of the dimensions of the accessibility of PA, developed in cooperation between researchers and the authorities of two cities in Finland. As a result, ten dimensions affecting accessibility have been identified: spatial, temporal, physical/technological, informational, economic, legal/ administrative, cultural/attitudinal, skills related, mental and social. A special focus of attention is on the most neglected dimension: the social. In addition to the dimensional typology, the article presents a view of the PA accessibility process in which the social dimension plays a significant role as a mediating level between the enabling factors and the decisions made by individuals.

Keywords: health promotion; physical activity; physical training; sports grounds and physical exercise facilities; accessibility; socioeconomic factors; urban design; participatory planning

Contributing organizations

Related projects

Ministry reporting: Yes

VIRTA submission year: 2022

JUFO rating: 0