Children living in poor or predominantly minority neighborhoods are less likely to have clean, safe, and attractive places to be physically active. They are also at higher risk for obesity, overweight, and related health problems.
This infographic by Active Living Research (ALR) features evidence on some of the barriers these kids face in being able to walk, bike, or play in their schools and neighborhoods. Barriers include a lack of recreational facilities, broken or uneven sidewalks, inadequate time for recess, and higher rates of automobile crashes and crime. Fortunately, all of these problems can be addressed with better policies, infrastructure improvements, and planning that can make neighborhoods safer, cleaner, and better designed for walking, biking, and playing. Use this evidence to make the case for improving your own communities. Findings presented in this infographic come from a related ALR research synthesis.