Physical Activity on Multiuse Trails and in a Novel Bike Park within an Urban Wilderness

Research has shown that the presence of, access to, and use of parks and trails is associated with increased levels of PA. However, little research exists on nature-based, recreational multiuse trails and bike-specific amenities within parks and their impact on PA. Therefore, to explore the effect trails and bike parks have on PA, this dissertation conducted three investigations to: 1) determine the impact of trail/greenway interventions on PA, 2) investigate how seasonality and weather influence nature-based recreational trail use, and 3) develop a demographic and PA profile of bike park users.

Investigation 1 (Chapter 4) systematically reviewed the literature specific to trail/greenway interventions and their impact on PA. Findings confirmed previous recommendations that trail/greenway infrastructure interventions combined with additional interventions (e.g., enhanced accessibility, community engagement) had a positive impact on PA. Additionally, findings indicate that multiple methods of PA assessment (e.g., direct observation, trail counters, self-report questionnaires) should be considered to better understand how these interventions impact PA.

Investigation 2 (Chapter 5) assessed the impact of seasonality and weather on trail use in a nature-based recreational trail network. Hourly/daily temporal changes in trail use were consistent with prior recreational trail investigations; however, unlike previous findings, bi-modal peaks in trail use were seen throughout the year. Specific to weather, the direction of effect on trail use was similar to previous investigations; however, the magnitude of the effect varied depending on the trail surface material. Gravel trail users were more sensitive to temperature and precipitation, whereas dirt trail users were more impacted by humidity, absolute pressure, and ultra-violet radiation index.

Investigation 3 (Chapter 6) developed a demographic and PA profile of users of a novel bike park. The demographics of bike park users was significantly different than surrounding communities but was representative of mountain biking in general. The majority of bike park users (64.2%) were observed participating in moderate-to-vigorous PA. Males used the bike park more than females and participated at higher intensities. Females were more likely to use playground features while males were more likely to use cycling features. Additionally, certain amenities of the bike park experienced more use than others.