title: The association of natural elements and trail use by adults.
abstract: We used the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities to examine the association between variations in natural elements (ie, season, weather, and temperature) and adults' use of a rail-trail in South Carolina (2006-2009). Most (62%) of the 4,468 trail users observed were walkers; 38% were observed participating in vigorous physical activity. Adults were most often observed using the trail during the summer (32%), sunny weather (78%), and moderate temperatures (54%). When promoting trail use among adults, natural elements should be considered.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Sacred Heart University, 5151 Park Ave, Fairfield, CT 06825, USA. pricea5@sacredheart.edu
authors.forename: Anna E
authors.initials: AE
authors.lastname: Price
authors.forename: Julian A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Reed
authors.forename: Steve P
authors.initials: SP
authors.lastname: Hooker
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D004779:Environment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D011998:Recreation; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012621:Seasons; D013022:South Carolina; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult