Walkability indices and children's walking behavior in rural vs. urban areas

Abstract Purpose This study described associations between selected walk indices (WI) and walking and physical activity behaviors in rural and urban children. Findings WI were higher in urban environments, yet children from rural areas walked for transportation more than children from urban areas. There was a negative correlation between National WI scores and walking for transportation in urban areas, and between the Frank WI scores and walking for exercise in rural areas. Conclusions Indices of walkability are not associated with objectively measured physical activity or self-reported walking behavior in children living in rural and urban settings.