A study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health (2021) described active transportation patterns for United States adolescents and young adults ages 12–25 years.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines “active transportation” as: “Any self-propelled, human-powered mode of transportation, such as walking or bicycling” (https://www.cdc.gov/healthyplaces/transportation/promote_strategy.htm).
This study found that active transportation was higher in males, minority, and lower income youth.
The researchers concluded that their study findings provide evidence for physical activity interventions.
Specifically, active transportation is a feasible target for low-income and minority youth to reduce physical activity disparities and support optimal health.
Behavioral health specialists should evaluate promoting active transportation options among minority and lower income adolescents and young adults for improving their mental health and preventing substance use.
View the research abstract: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1054139X21001609