The relationships between urban parks, residents' physical activity, and mental health benefits: A case study from Beijing, China

Abstract

The role of urban parks in improving public health has been analyzed in the context of urban design in developed countries, but has seldom been considered in developing countries such as China. Previous studies have found positive correlations between parks and residents' physical activity and mental health status. In this study, we conducted a questionnaire survey to investigate respondents' physical activity status and its relationship with urban parks. The impact of different activities engaged in during park use on positive mental health was examined. The average physical activity level of the sample was 92.7 min of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day. Park users were more active in all forms of physical activity, except transport walking, than non-users. The presence of a park within 500 m from home and park use were significantly associated with total physical activity. Physical activity in parks significantly restored visitors' moods and energy levels, and interaction with nature brought mental health benefits in terms of relaxation and self-perceived confidence. Overall, this study found a positive correlation of urban parks with public physical activity and positive mental health benefits. However, further research is needed to improve the understanding of this relationship in the context of China.

Cognitive Effects and Educational Possibilities of Physical Activity in Sustainable Cities

“…For example, we have previously read how a closer proximity to green spaces and recreational areas beneficially influences our quality of life [52,69]. However, we have also seen how it is not only essential to increase the number of leisure areas but also we must take into account the factors that will determine significantly in their mode and amount of use.…”

“…Given the above, it is clear that there exists sufficient evidence of how the recreation areas which are located in the cities favor the maintenance of a healthy body and mind [69], but for this, as we have also seen, it is necessary to take into account certain criteria that strengthen its sustainability.…”

“…stand out for their emotional charged character. These encounters with art not only favor socialization, but also refresh and exercise our cognitive components related to emotions [2,69], which are one of the most important component to work body language in education. In addition, visit and participation to folklore and gastronomic festivals are magnificent socializing environments that invite us to exercise the rest of senses and cognitive functions at the same time we can do PA [2,15].…”

User Awareness for the Benefits of Urban Parks: Ankara City Case

“…According to the results; people expressed to develop themselves in selfconfidence (69.9%), energy levels (61.4%), feeling healthy (60%), mental healing (52%) and relaxation (37.8%). A positive relationship was found between the physical activities and mental health of park users and their residents (Liu et al, 2017). According to the results of the study conducted by Kuo and Sullivan (2001); being contact with nature reduces mental fatigue, aggression and violence.…”

Place-Keeping for Health? Charting the Challenges for Urban Park Management in Practice

“…This has been explored through the "broken window syndrome", in which poor management has been shown to lead to more severe anti-social and criminal behaviour [10] as well as significant declines in quality green space [11], which are difficult and costly to rectify. In light of the increasing global recognition of the part that natural urban green spaces such as parks play in contributing positively to public health [12][13][14], the importance of green space management should not be overlooked. Green space management is widely acknowledged around the world as contributing positively towards sustainable development [15,16] and the long-term liveability of places [17,18].…”